Enjoying the Summer Safely
It’s summertime and we’re ready to get outdoors! Thankfully, the temps haven’t been too high yet–although, we’re sure they will be rising soon. We’ve already have many gorgeous days and summer is just beginning–it’s great to get outside, get fresh air, and a little sun.
This summer looks a little different of course, so you’ll want to keep in mind extra precautions.
- Practice social distancing when outside. Go to the park! It’s great… but be aware of the number of people around you and their proximity. If you can’t walk/bike/stroll comfortably without bumping into other people, it’s better to find a different place to play.
- Wear masks when social distancing can’t be maintained–and even when it can! If you find it difficult to wear a mask outside in the heat, plan your outdoor activities when parks aren’t as crowded so you have more space.
- Change clothes and shower when you arrive home– not only for virus protection, this is also a good idea if you suffer from seasonal outdoor allergies.
- Prepare! Many parks have their bathroom facilities and water fountains closed. Bring hand sanitizer until you can get back home to wash your hands properly. And don’t forget your water bottle (and bring water for the dogs too!)
Avoid direct sunlight by sitting in the shade. It will feel a little cooler and you’ll minimize your exposure to UV rays when you sit in the shade. Reminder: It’s best to avoid being outside between 11:00 am and 3:00 pm on sunny days when the UV radiation is the highest.
Your best plan is to bring a canopy or beach umbrella if you are going to be lounging outside during the day. A better idea would be to schedule your outdoor activities and exercise early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the brightest part of the day.
Wear clothing that protects your skin. Long sleeve tops and pants made of lightweight, tight weave fabrics are great ways to protect your skin from the sun. Also, many swimsuits and rash guards have UV protection built-in and are designed to stay cool and fashionable at the pool or beach.
Also, a wide brim hat is helpful to protect your head and face from the sun. Hats are good for everyone, but especially important if you have thin hair or no hair.
If you don’t love hats, consider picking up a headband/ head covering such as a buff. You can wear it lower to protect your forehead, and they can also be worn as a face covering instead of or in addition to your regular mask.
Your eyes are especially sensitive to UV radiation and over time, sun exposure can cause eye damage, cataracts, and even cancer to the eyes and the skin around them.
Not all sunglasses are created equal though. Look for labels that promise 100% UV protection and pick styles that cover the sides of the eyes, such as the wraparound styles.
Wear it. Every day. No exceptions. Many moisturizers and makeup products include sunscreen, so there is no excuse to not have sunscreen on daily. For the rest of the body, look for the highest SPF you can find, and reapply as directed on the bottle.
Sunscreen alone won’t cut it though, so it’s best if you use sunscreen together with protective clothing and shade.
Source: https://careinthesun.org/sun-protection/ways-to-enjoy-the-sun-safely/
Photo credit: https://pixabay.com/photos/dawn-sunrise-sun-beach-sand-girl-1689712/
