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:
