Summer is a time for outdoor adventures, fun-filled vacations, and relaxation under the warm sun. I love making the most out of this beautiful season, but it’s equally important to prioritize safety. By being prepped you can avoid some summer hazards and enjoy a summer season filled with joy, laughter, and peace of mind.
Stay Hydrated
With rising temperatures, it’s crucial to stay hydrated to avoid dehydration and heat-related illnesses. Make sure you have enough water, fruit juices, or electrolyte drinks on hand to always grab and go with you, but especially if you are going to be in the heat for extended hours. And drink plenty of fluids, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
Stack Up on Sunscreen
Protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is vital during the summer months, which is why you need to make sure you have enough sunscreen on hand and in all sizes. Put one in your purse, your glove compartment, and your beach bags. Spread them around so the sunscreen is there when you are ready to go. And don’t forget lip sunscreen. You don’t want your lips blistering. Apply sunscreen with a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30 before heading outdoors. Reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you are swimming or sweating.
Dress for the Heat
Make sure you have suitable summer clothing for the heat, lightweight, loose-fitting clothing made of breathable fabrics like cotton or linen to stay cool. Opt for light-colored clothes that reflect the sun’s rays rather than absorbing them. Get yourself a couple of wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses to shield your face and eyes from the sun. I loved the assortment of colorful, wide-brimmed hats my aunt used to wear. Heads turned when she walked onto the beach.
Water Safety
Prep before going to the beach, lake, or pool. Know their safety rules. You can probably find them online. Discuss them with your family or whoever is going with you. Never, ever, leave children unattended near water. Always swim in designated areas and if unsure ask the lifeguards. Use life jackets or personal flotation devices when boating or participating in water sports. Be wise and check beach conditions before you go.
Food Safety
Summer is the perfect time for barbecues and picnics, but it’s crucial to handle and store food properly to prevent foodborne illnesses. Make sure your coolers are in good shape or get new ones if needed. Same with cooler ice packs. Keep perishable food in coolers or refrigerators and avoid leaving them out in the sun for extended periods. Use separate utensils and cutting boards for raw and cooked foods and wash your hands thoroughly before handling food.
Take Breaks and Seek Shade
Check that your umbrellas are in good shape for the beach. Prolonged exposure to the sun and heat can lead to heatstroke, exhaustion, or sunburn. Be prepared to take regular breaks in shaded areas or indoors to cool down and rest. Plan activities during the cooler parts of the day, usually early morning or late afternoon.
Insect Bites
Check your stock of insect repellents and make sure to add some to your backpacks. Insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, and bees are more active during the summer. Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and closed-toe shoes when hiking or spending time in wooded areas. Check for ticks regularly, especially after spending time in grassy or wooded areas.
First Aid Kits
Preppers know how important it is to keep first aid kits updated, so you probably already have what you need for summer healing. Make sure you’re stocked with antihistamines for allergic reactions to stings and plants. Check on the hydrocortisone cream as well since in summertime it can go fast in summer and you want to have enough on hand to help soothe itchy rashes, insect bites, and poison ivy. And don’t forget the aloe to help soothe sunburns.
Stay Informed
Preppers know how important it is to stay informed about weather forecasts, heat advisories, and potential hazards in your area. Sign up for emergency alerts and notifications to ensure you receive timely information about any safety.
Pets
Don’t forget about your furry friends. DO NOT leave your dog outside or inside in the heat. If you can’t take the heat, just think how they must feel with all that fur on them. Make sure you keep their water bowls full. They need to hydrate as well.
Stay Cool Indoors
You are prepped and prepared, so you know the wise thing to do on extremely hot days is to stay cool indoors. If you don’t have air conditioning, consider visiting air-conditioned public places like malls, libraries (a good place to beat the heat if the library is air conditioned) or community centers. Use fans, take cool showers, and I know everyone raves about letting the sunlight in, but the sun beating through your windows on a hot day is your nemesis. Close those curtains or blinds to block out the sun’s heat so your air conditioner does not have to work so hard.
Until next time… stay prepped & prepared.
