Summertime Safety

It’s that time of year again! Kids are out of school for summer, pools are open and outside activities are prevalent all around town. While summertime is a fantastic time to enjoy the outdoors, it is important to also stay safe and protect yourself.

Check out some tips below to make sure your family stays healthy and happy this summer!

Watch Out for Mosquitoes and other Bugs

Warm temperatures tend to attract bugs that can make you quite itchy! From mosquitoes to ticks to even fleas, these bugs can be quite the nuisance. Not only can they be a nuisance, but they can also carry diseases such as the West Nile Virus or Lyme disease.

To help prevent bites from these pesky bugs, make sure to wear insect and tick repellent. It is always a good idea to use repellent that contains DEET. Make sure to cover yourself properly with repellent where any skin might be exposed.

If you do happen to get bit by a mosquito, apply anti-itch cream to help reduce the itchiness of the bite. (Because the more you mess with it, the more it will itch!)

Protect Yourself from the Harsh Summer Sun

The sun puts out the strongest rays during midday, so if you can, please try to avoid being outdoors during this time (12pm-2pm). If you do go outdoors make sure to pile on the sunscreen! You should always be wearing at least SPF 15 but we recommend wearing SPF 30 for the upmost protection.

If you go into the water or stay out in the sun for more than a couple hours at a time, make sure to continuously reapply sunscreen to protect your body from sunburns. Sunburns hurt and can also cause skin cancer. If you do happen to get burned, make sure to apply aloe vera to help the burn heal.

Other ways you can protect your skin? Cover up with light clothing, wear hats or visors and spend more time under a tree in the shade!

Keep Hydrated

The summer months can have you feeling more dehydrated than usual. Keep your body hydrated by drinking lots of water throughout the day. If you spend more time outdoors, then it is especially important that you drink lots of water before you go outside and while you are outside.

For more summer safety tips for kids, check out the CDC website here: http://www.cdc.gov/features/KidsSafety/.

Remember, if you find yourself in an emergency situation, please do not hesitate to contact 9-1-1.

Check out these tips from the Los Angeles Fire Department: