How To Stay Safe and Prevent Injuries This Season!
How to Stay Safe and Prevent Injuries This Summer
This past week, I finally decided to dust off my bike and enjoy a ride. It was my first time out since last season, and everything was going great—until I clipped the edge of the pavement and hit the ground. I quickly checked myself over to make sure everything was intact. Thankfully, I was wearing a helmet and only ended up with a few scrapes on my elbows.
That little incident got me thinking: with warmer days ahead, it’s the perfect time to review some essential summer safety tips to help prevent injuries and stay healthy all season.
While most of this may seem like common sense, use this as your Go-To Checklist to make sure you’re covering all the basics:
Beat the Heat: Stay Hydrated and Cool
Drink plenty of water throughout the day—even if you don’t feel thirsty.
Avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours, typically between 10 AM and 4 PM.
Seek shade and take frequent breaks when spending time outside.
Protect Yourself From the Sun
Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours, especially when swimming or sweating.
Wear UV-protective sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat.
Stay Safe at the Pool, Beach, or Lake
Always supervise children near water, no matter how shallow.
Never swim alone—use the buddy system.
Wear life jackets when boating or doing water sports.
Avoid Outdoor Sport Injuries
Use proper gear like helmets, pads, and supportive footwear.
Apply bug repellent to prevent bites and insect-borne illnesses.
Warm up and stretch before any physical activity.
Keep Summer Meals Safe
Store perishable foods in a cooler with plenty of ice packs.
Don’t leave food out in the sun for more than one hour, especially if it’s over 90°F.
Watch for Signs of Heat Exhaustion
If you or someone else experiences dizziness, nausea, heavy sweating, headache, or fatigue, move to a shaded area and rehydrate immediately—these could be signs of heat exhaustion.
As summer approaches, taking a few simple precautions can go a long way in keeping you and your loved ones safe. Let’s make this season fun, active, and injury-free!