Summer is a wonderful season that is sure to have you yearning for spending time outdoors. However, it would be best to practice good sun and heat safety to keep you and your family safe.
Sun safety becomes vital to prevent heat exhaustion or heat stroke, particularly if you have young children or older relatives. High-risk groups also include people who are overweight, have a chronic health condition, or take a specific medication. If you or a family member notice any of the following symptoms, you should seek medical help right away:
- Vomiting
- Dizziness or confusion
- A fast or strong pulse
- A body temperature of 38.4 Celsius or higher
- Overly dry, red, hot, or damp skin
- Worsening symptoms or symptoms that last longer than one hour after attempting to cool down
With this cautionary advice out of the way, let’s explore the ways you can ensure sun safety and still enjoy the outdoors during summer.
1. Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is incredibly important and the first step in heat safety. It would be best if you aimed to drink between six and eight glasses of water each day. You should increase your consumption up to one glass every hour if you are outside during the summer. If you know you are heading outdoors, try to drink a glass of water twenty minutes beforehand.
2. Stay Shaded
You can achieve heat safety by staying under shade between 10 am and 4 pm. If you have a summer BBQ or drinks with family and friends, position your outdoor garden furniture in a shady spot where you and your guests will benefit from the cooling breeze. If you have no garden shade, head indoors.
3. Avoid The Hottest Point Of The Day
A practical method for achieving heat and sun safety is to plan to get outside early in the day or later in the evening. The hottest part of the day occurs between 2 pm and 4 pm, but staying out of the sun and avoiding strenuous activities or exercise between 10 am and 4 pm is a good practice to adopt.
4. Dress For The Weather
To help you stay cool and protect your skin, you can wear loose, light-colored clothing. The lighter the colour, the more heat is reflected. If you are out in the sun, you can also choose moisture-wicking or UV-protective clothing. Don’t forget to wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
5. Avoid Garden Furniture That Gives Off Heat
Certain materials absorb large amounts of heat that can burn your skin or radiate the heat into your body, causing heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Metal conducts heat, so it is best to avoid metal garden furniture on scorching days. The safest option is furniture made from a natural material, such as timber. A good set of wooden garden picnic tables, wooden garden chairs, and garden coffee tables will help keep you and your family safe.