Well, Summer 2022 is not that far from where we are right now. In fact, Summer is right around the corner with the Official start of Summer 2022 being Tuesday June 21st! So, to help prepare for summer way ahead of time, here are some tips to help both you and your family get through this coming summer season 2022 without any problems! And I mean that literally!!

When Outdoors:

1. Wear a sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 15. Apply at least 30 minutes (which is half an hour) prior to going outdoors and reapply as needed.
2. Take rests often in shady areas so that your body’s temperature has a chance to recover.
3. If unused to either working or exercising in a steamy environment, slowly increase the pace and limit both exercise and work time.
4. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing, sunglasses to protect your eyes. and a wide-brimmed hat to both provide shade and keep your head cool.
5. Take special care with both infants and young children by dressing them in loose, cool clothing and shading both their heads and faces with either a hat or umbrella. And finally, protect their feet with shoes.

To Avoid Heat-Related Illnesses:

1. Never leave infants, children, or pets inside a parked vehicle.
2. Increase fluid take, regardless of activity levels. DO NOT wait until thirsty to drink any fluids; drink more liquids that one’s thirst shows.
3. Avoid “heat hangover.” Continue to drink plenty of fluids even after hard exercising. This will enable the body to maintain ideal hydration and help prevent the aftereffects of heat exposure such as both headaches and fatigue.
4. Avoid drinking beverages containing alcohol, caffeine, or large amounts of sugar as they all dehydrate the body.
5. Avoid drinking extremely cold beverages, as they cause your stomachs to cramp.
6. Limit either exercise or outdoor activity between the hours of 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. when the Sun is at its highest and intense heat peak of the day. But if you have to be active during this window, remember to drink a minimum of 16 to 32 ounces of water each hour.
7. If air conditioning is not available, pull the shades down over your windows and use both cross-ventilation and fans to cool down all of your rooms.
8. Try taking a cool shower or bath to help cool off.
9. Some medicines, both prescription and over the counter, may increase the risk of heat-related illnesses. So, consult your physician immediately if you have any questions or concerns.