Summer is a time for fun and adventure, but it’s vital to stay safe while enjoying the sun and fresh air. Nothing can ruin a fun outdoor experience faster than an accident or injury. So, whether you are camping, biking your favorite trails, hiking in the mountains, or just going to the beach or the pool, here are some recommendations to help keep you safe on every outdoor adventure in Winter Park this summer!
Apply (and Reapply) Sunscreen
One of the greatest ways to safely enjoy any outdoor activity is to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Wearing sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 will assist in avoiding sunburn and skin damage. Apply a cream sunscreen, not a spray, and apply sunscreen all over your body, including your face, neck, ears, and scalp.
At that time, be sure to reapply sunscreen at least every two hours if you are sweating or swimming. Sunscreen only lasts so long, so it’s necessary to keep reapplying it throughout the day to make sure you are still protected.
Wear Protective Clothing
Another excellent method to protect yourself from the sun is to wear protective clothing. Long-sleeved shirts and pants, hats, and sunglasses can help keep the sun off your skin. If you are going to be in the water, wearing a rash guard or wetsuit will also help protect your skin from the sun’s rays.
Stay Hydrated
It’s advisable to stay hydrated, especially in summer when it’s hot and sunny. Drink enough water throughout the day, and carry a water bottle with you so you can take a drink whenever you need to. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol in them – they will make dehydration worse.
If you are heading hiking or doing any other strenuous activity, take along some sports drinks to replenish your electrolytes. And if you are enjoying time in the desert or at a high altitude, remember to drink even more water than usual.
Avoid Peak Hours
One of the best strategies to avoid harmful UV rays is to avoid being outdoors during peak hours. The sun’s rays are the strongest between 11 am and 2 pm. Ideally, try to plan your outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon/evening, when the sun is not as strong. This will help you stay cooler and avoid getting too much sun.
Know Your Limits – and Come Prepared
It’s necessary to know your limits when you are outdoors. If you are not acclimated to hiking in the heat, start with shorter hikes and work your way up. And if you are unfamiliar with camping, consider starting with car camping before venturing into backpacking.
You should also be familiar with your physical limitations. If you have a medical condition that makes it hard to be in the heat or cold, take steps to stay safe and comfortable.
Lastly, brush up on your basic first aid and understand the warning signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke. It’s always better to be safe than sorry! Carry basic first aid items like cold packs, burn spray, aloe vera gel, bandages, itch cream, and pain relievers when you travel outdoors.
Watch Out for Wildlife
When you are outdoors, you need to be aware of your surroundings and pay attention to wildlife. If you are hiking in the mountains or woods, make sure you know what kind of animals live there and how to avoid encountering them.
Some animals, like bears and mountain lions, are more dangerous than others. But even little animals can pose a threat if you’re not careful. For illustration, snakes and spiders can be located in many different outdoor environments, so it’s critical to know how to avoid them and what to do if they bite.
Always Tell Someone Where You’re Going – and When You’ll Be Back
Whenever you head out for an outdoor adventure, it’s important to let someone know where you’re going and when you’ll be back. This is especially important if you are going solo or if you are going to be in a remote location.
If something happens and you need help, someone needs to know where to find you. So, before you get going, even if just to the local swimming pool, don’t forget to write a detailed itinerary with a friend or family member.
This summer, you can experience all your favorite outdoor adventures while staying safe from the sun and heat by following these safety tips. So get out there and enjoy the great outdoors!
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