The first day of summer is right around the corner, and the weather is already heating up in Texas. We’re here to remind you that whether you’re enjoying a barbeque at the lake or celebrating the Fourth of July, it’s important to put safety first. From swimming lessons and sunglasses, to fireworks and fresh fruit, here are our top seven healthy summer tips.
1: Wear Sunscreen to Protect Your Skin
The best way to prevent sunburns (and permanent skin damage) is to wear sunscreen whenever you go outdoors. However, most people don’t realize how quickly it wears off. You’ll need to reapply your sunscreen every two hours (every hour for little ones) and if you’ve been swimming, as soon as you come out of the water. Look for a sunscreen with at least 30 SPF, and don’t forget about your lips—you’ll need an SPF lip balm as well.
2: Don’t Forget to Protect Your Eyes
Did you know that your eyes can get sunburned, too? Wearing UV-blocking sunglasses is just as important as wearing sunscreen when you’re outside in the summer. UV sunglasses can help prevent headaches and cataracts, and can even make you a better driver. So whether you’re at the pool, out on a boat, or taking a road trip, don’t forget your sunglasses.
3: Stay Hydrated to Prevent Heat Stroke
Heat-related illnesses proved deadly for hundreds of Texans last year. Knowing the symptoms of heat exhaustion can help you prevent a potentially life-threatening situation. But you also need to make sure that you’re drinking enough water and getting enough electrolytes to retain the water it needs. Keeping a stash of hydrating beverages on hand (Gatorade, Pedialyte, or coconut water) is always a good idea, especially if you have children or elderly people in your care.
4: Eat More Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
Summer is the peak season for fresh fruits and vegetables, so why not check out a local farmers market? Eating healthy foods is a great way to celebrate the season. And some of them can even help you stay hydrated. Fresh foods like watermelon, cucumbers, tomatoes, and peaches all have a high water content that will keep you feeling refreshed even on the hottest days. And hydrating treats like peach popsicles or watermelon agua fresca are always a hit with the kids.
5: Avoid Strenuous Activity During Heat Waves
Outdoor temperatures peak between 11am and 5pm. Try to plan outdoor activities for the early morning or later in the evening. If you do have to work outside during the day, take frequent breaks for water (at least once an hour). Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing, and if you start to feel dizzy or lightheaded, go indoors or rest in the shade.
6: Learn CPR or Sign the Kids Up for Swimming Lessons
We’re lucky here in Jacksonville to have access to so much fresh water. Whether you’re camping at Lake Jacksonville, visiting the Neches River National Wildlife Refuge, or just hanging out at the pool, it’s important to put safety first. Learning how to perform CPR and teaching your kids how to swim will help keep them safe on the water. The Summers A. Norman Aquatic Center offers swimming lessons for kids ages three and up that teach fundamental skills like how to float if they fall in.
7: Handle Fireworks with Care
When it comes to Fourth of July fireworks displays, it’s best to leave them to a licensed professional. Most types of fireworks are illegal in Texas, especially if there’s a fire ban. But it’s still important to be careful with the ones that are permitted. Roman candles, helicopter rockets, and firecrackers can still cause burns and other injuries when they aren’t handled properly. If you decide to celebrate with fireworks, make sure that they are legal to use in your city or county, and always monitor children closely around any type of explosives.
Urgent Care in Jacksonville, Texas
Here at Total Point Urgent Care, we hope that everyone in our community will enjoy a safe and healthy summer. But if anything goes wrong, we’re here for you. We have many convenient locations throughout East-Central Texas and the Dallas Fort Worth area, including a clinic in Jacksonville. Whether you’re having an allergic reaction or need x-rays after an injury, we’ve got you covered from A to Z. Visit our locations page to find the clinic nearest you.
Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 6/05/2024.
