Summer is one of my favorite times of year. Whether I’m tending the garden, hiking a favorite trail with Mo, enjoying a picnic, or simply relaxing on the back deck, I love being outdoors. But as much as I enjoy the sunshine, I’ve learned that too much of it can quickly turn a wonderful day into an uncomfortable one.
A little preparation before heading outside can make all the difference.
Don’t Skip the Sunscreen
A broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher is a great place to start. Apply it before heading outdoors, and don’t forget to reapply every couple of hours—especially if you’re swimming or working up a sweat in the garden.
Dress for the Sun
A wide-brimmed hat helps protect your face, ears, and neck, while sunglasses shield your eyes from harmful UV rays. Lightweight, light-colored clothing with long sleeves can also provide extra protection without making you feel overheated.
Stay Hydrated
One of the easiest mistakes to make is waiting until you’re thirsty to grab a drink. By then, your body is already telling you it needs water. Keep a bottle nearby and sip throughout the day, especially if you’re gardening, hiking, or spending hours outdoors.
Take a Break
Even if you’re enjoying yourself, your body appreciates an occasional rest. Find a shady spot, cool off for a few minutes, and give yourself time to recharge before heading back into the sun.
Plan Around the Hottest Part of the Day
If possible, save strenuous outdoor chores for the morning or early evening. The midday sun can be intense, making even simple tasks feel exhausting.
Don’t Forget Your Four-Legged Friends
Mo loves being outside as much as I do, but even he knows when it’s time to find a shady spot. Make sure your pets always have plenty of fresh water, access to shade, and avoid walking them on hot pavement that can burn their paws.
Know the Warning Signs
Too much sun and heat can lead to heat exhaustion. If you or someone with you becomes dizzy, weak, nauseated, or develops a headache, it’s time to move to a cool place, drink water, and rest. If symptoms become severe or someone becomes confused or loses consciousness, seek medical help immediately.
Listen to What Your Skin Is Telling You
If your skin starts taking on a little color, don’t think of it as the beginning of a tan. Think of it as your body’s gentle reminder to take a break. Pull on a lightweight shirt, find some shade, or head inside for a while. A few minutes of prevention beats a couple of days wondering why even your bedsheets hurt.
Treat a Sunburn Early
If you do end up with a little too much sunshine, cool showers, cool compresses, aloe vera gel, and drinking extra water can help ease the discomfort while your skin heals.
One Last Thought
Preparedness isn’t always about emergency supplies or storm planning. Sometimes it’s as simple as remembering your hat, filling your water bottle, and packing sunscreen before you walk out the door. Those few extra minutes of preparation can help you enjoy every beautiful summer day—and avoid bringing home anything more than wonderful memories.
☀️ Prepper Tip: Create a Summer Grab Bag
Keep a small summer essentials bag ready to go with sunscreen, insect repellent, lip balm with SPF, a refillable water bottle, a cooling towel, and a basic first aid kit. Whether you’re heading to the beach, hiking a trail, or spending the day in the garden, you’ll have everything you need in one place.
Stay prepped & prepared,
Pepper
