7 Summer Safety Tips (to Keep You Out of Urgent Care)

Sunny days inspire outdoor activities. Whether enjoying a quiet day by the pool, a trip to the beach, or a hike through the forest, use these tips to stay safe this summer. Don’t let your fun in the sun land you at Urgent Care!

1. Food safety- Picnics and barbecues are summertime traditions. Keep your friends and family safe by coking meat to the correct temperature, never leaving perishables in the sun for more than two hours, using separate cutting boards for raw meat, and keeping knives out of the reach of children.
2. Grill safety- Avoid fires and burns by never grilling indoors or near branches or structures, keeping children at least three feet from any heat or flame, never leaving your grill unattended, keeping the lid of your gas grill open when lighting, and cleaning your grill regularly to remove grease build-up on the grills and the surface underneath.
3. Fireworks- Many Americans celebrate the Fourth of July with family, friends, and fireworks. If you choose to use them this summer, never allow children to play with fireworks or sparklers, keep a hose or bucket of water close-by, don’t attempt to relight or pick-up a firework that did not ignite fully, and light one at a time and move back quickly.
4. Sun protection- We are at higher risk of getting sunburns and skin cancer during these sunny days. The CDC reminds us to stay out of direct sun whenever possible between 10am- 3pm, wear UV-rated sunglasses and wide-brimmed hats, and choose a sunscreen with an SPF of 30-50 for face, ears, and other areas of prolonged exposure and SPF 15-30 for all other areas. Finally, remember to reapply sunscreen every hour.
5. Hydrate- Be sure to drink plenty of non-sugary fluids such as water or unsweetened tea. When you have prolonged exposure or are exercising, choose a sports drink to replenish electrolytes.
6. Avoid bug bites- Avoid bites by using insect repellant. Be sure to apply in a well-ventilated area. When in grassy, forested, or brush covered areas, take precautions against ticks. If you are bitten by a tick, removeit right away. If the tick was attached for an unknown amount of time, or for more than 36 hours, see a health care provider for a preventive dose of antibiotic.
7. Wear the right gear- When the sunshine calls you to play outdoors, do it safely. Remember, when you are on anything with wheels (bike, skateboard, scooter, etc.), be sure to protect your head with a helmet. Always use a life jacket when on (or for children, near) the water. Finally, choose the right footwear for the activity. Sandals and bare feet increase your risk of injury when running and playing.

A little planning goes a long way. Plan to enjoy the summer safely and avoid injuries and illness. If you do need medical care, Elliot Urgent Care is available for walk-in appointments with an experienced provider. You can check Urgent Care walk-in wait times online.