By Dr. Amy Aronsky
Dr. Amy Aronsky is the chief medical officer for UnitedHealthcare of Delaware.
Summer brings long days, family vacations, afternoons by the pool and more time outside. But, as temperatures rise and families head to the water, it’s also a time to be extra mindful about staying safe. From heat-related illness to sun exposure and drowning risks, a few simple precautions can ensure that summer fun stays just that — fun.
Here are some tips to help you stay safe in the sun, especially around water:
- Take swim lessons to reduce the risk of drowning. According to the latest Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data, unintentional drowning remains a leading cause of death for young children in the United States. More children ages 1-4 die from drowning than any other cause of death, and drowning is the second-leading cause of unintentional-injury death for children 5-14. Every year in the United States, there are over 4,000 unintentional drownings — an average of 11 per day.
- Wear a life jacket during water-based activities. Pool toys, such as noodles or inner tubes, should not be used in lieu of life jackets, as they are not designed to keep swimmers safe. For children, choosing bright-colored swimsuits can also make it easier to spot them in the water.
- Learn and practice CPR. When performed by bystanders during emergencies, CPR can save lives and improve outcomes for drowning victims. The sooner CPR starts, the better the chance of a positive outcome.
- Prepare for weather. Strong winds and thunderstorms can be dangerous when you are in or around water, so check the forecast before boating or swimming and head to shore right away if storms develop.
- Reapply sunscreen every two hours to protect your skin. Sunscreens are categorized using a sun protection factor number that rates how well they block ultraviolet rays, with higher numbers indicating more protection. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and reapply at least every two hours — or more often when swimming or sweating.
- Wear protective clothing, a hat and sunglasses. When possible, wear long-sleeve shirts, pants or long skirts that can protect against UV rays. Clothes made from tightly woven fabrics — along with hats with wide brims to cover the face, ears and back of the neck — provide the best protection.
- Protect infants and children from the heat. Infants and young children rely on adults to keep them cool and hydrated. Dress them in loose, lightweight clothing, offer water frequently and monitor for early signs of overheating, especially during outdoor play. And never leave a child in a parked car.
- Stay cool and hydrated. As the weather warms up, remember to drink lots of water. Increase fluids during heat or physical activity and consider electrolyte replacement for prolonged exertion. Limit alcohol and caffeinated drinks.
- Help older adults stay safe in extreme heat. Adults 65 and older are more prone to heat-related health problems. Encourage them to stay in air-conditioned spaces as much as possible, to drink water regularly without waiting until they feel thirsty, to wear loose and lightweight clothing, and to check in with family, friends or neighbors during periods of extreme heat.
Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at civiltalk@iniusa.org.
