Summer Safety Tips: Stay Safe, Hydrated and Protected

Summer semester is over, and the summer has officially begun. This year, Student Health Promotion hosted a Summer Safety Fair on July 20, 2016. Students learned about safe and legal consumption of alcohol, effective use of sunscreen and the importance of hydration. While you are taking this time to unwind and make lasting memories before the fall semester begins, remember to stay safe, hydrated and protected.

Stay Safe
Twenty-seven percent of all emergency room visits across the U.S. occur in the summer, making it the most likely season for trauma injuries. The most common emergency room visits during the summer are usually the result of ATV, bicycle or motorcycle accidents, boating or swimming accidents, falling from ladders and grill or firecracker accidents. To prevent these types of injuries, remember to always wear safety gear such a helmet, seat belt or life preserver. Do not use alcohol or other substances before driving, cycling, swimming or boating. Always swim and grill with a partner, Last but not least, leave the firecrackers to the professionals.

Stay Hydrated
Adults should be drinking two to four liters of water a day. Thirst is a signal that the body is already on its way to dehydration. Symptoms of dehydration can include less frequent urination, fatigue, dry mouth and increased heart rate. If you exercise regularly, hydration is key. In one hour of exercise, the body loses more than a quart of water.

Stay Protected
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer, accounting for nearly half of all cancer cases. The sun’s ultraviolet rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If you are going to be in the sun for an extended period of time, wear a shirt, apply sunscreen and wear a hat and sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes. When choosing a sunscreen, remember that sun protection factor (SPF) only measures protection against UVB rays. Consider using a broad spectrum sunscreen to protect against UVA and UVB rays.