Summer is a season for adventure and enjoyment, but it’s also crucial to keep safe when taking in the sun and fresh air. Accidents and injuries may ruin an outdoor excursion in a hurry. So, whether you’re going camping, bicycling your favorite routes, trekking in the mountains, or simply going to the beach or pool this summer, here are some safety recommendations to keep you safe in Orange County!
Apply (and Reapply) Sunscreen
Protecting yourself from the sun’s UV rays is one of the finest methods to safely participate in any outdoor activity. Sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 is recommended to avoid sunburn and skin damage. Apply sunscreen over your whole body, including your ears, face, neck, and scalp, using a cream sunscreen instead of a spray.
If you’re sweating or swimming, reapply sunblock every two hours at the absolute least. Because sunscreen only lasts a certain amount of time, it’s critical to reapply it throughout the day to ensure that you’re still covered.
Wear Protective Clothing
Another great way to protect yourself from the sun is to wear protective clothing. Sun protection includes long-sleeved shirts and pants, caps, and sunglasses. If you are going to be in the water, wearing a rash guard or wetsuit will also help protect your skin from the sun’s rays.
Stay Hydrated
In the summer, when it gets hot and sunny, it is vital to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, and keep a water bottle with you at all times so you can get a drink when you need it. Caffeine and alcoholic beverages should be avoided because they aggravate dehydration.
Bring some sports drinks with you if you’re going climbing or doing any other tough activity. Drink significantly more water than usual if you’re in the desert or at a high altitude.
Avoid Peak Hours
To minimize dangerous UV rays, it is preferable to avoid being outdoors during peak hours. The brightest solar rays occur between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. If at all feasible, schedule your outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon/evening, when the sun is not at peak level. This will allow you to be cooler and kept safer from overexposure to the sun.
Know Your Limits – and Come Prepared
When you’re outside, it’s crucial to understand your limits. Begin with shorter hikes and work your way up if you aren’t used to hiking in the heat. And if you are new to camping, you may want to begin with vehicle camping before attempting backpacking.
It’s also important to be mindful of your own physical limitations. Take precautions to keep safe and comfortable if you have a medical condition that makes it difficult for you to be in extreme heat or cold.
Lastly, brush up on your first aid skills and familiarize yourself with the signs of heat stroke and heat exhaustion. Always take the precautionary route! When you go outside, bring some basic first-aid supplies with you, such as burn spray, cold packs, aloe vera gel, bandages, itch cream, and pain medicines.
Watch Out for Wildlife
It is essential to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye out for wildlife when outdoors. If you’re going hiking in the forests or mountains, be sure you know what kinds of animals reside there and how to avoid them.
Bears and mountain lions, for example, are more dangerous than other animals. If you’re not careful, even small animals can be dangerous. Snakes and spiders, for example, can be found in a variety of outdoor places, so knowing how to avoid them and what to do if they bite is essential.
Always Tell Someone Where You’re Going – and When You’ll Be Back
When embarking on an outdoor excursion, it is essential to let someone know where you’re going and when you’ll return. This is especially true if you’re traveling alone or in a far away area.
Someone must be aware of your location in the event that you require assistance. Leave a precise itinerary with a friend or family member before leaving, even if you’re simply going to the local swimming pool.
By following these safety precautions, you can enjoy all of your favorite outdoor activities while remaining safe from the sun and heat this summer. So get out there and take in the fresh air!
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