Extreme Heat Safety
- Stay out of the direct sun. Seek shaded or air conditioned areas such as libraries or malls. MORE
- Whenever possible, schedule outdoor events (public gatherings, sporting events) early in the morning when it’s cooler and the air quality is better.
- Drink plenty of fluids. (Avoid alcohol and caffeine.)
- Wear light-colored, light-weight clothing. Use hats with brims and sunscreen for more protection.
- The elderly, small children, and people with chronic health conditions are more vulnerable to the heat. Call and check on friends, family, and neighbors.
- Anyone showing signs of heat stroke (altered mental state, not sweating, nausea) should seek medical attention immediately.
Summer Vacations
- Planning a trip outside the United States? Certain shots may berequired or recommended. Travel clinics can get properly immunized.MORE
- Take steps to stay healthy and safewhen you travel.
Swim Safely
Swimming is a great way to beat the summer heat and it is a fun way to get exercise. Whether you are swimming in your own backyard pool, in your family or neighbor’s pool, or in a natural body of water, follow these tips to keep this popular summer pastime safe:
- Never swim alone! Even experienced or strong swimmers might need help.
- Do not leave young children or non-swimmers unattended.
- Encourage children and other non-swimmers to use life jackets or other approved flotation devices.
- Sign up for swimming lessons—you are never too old or too young to learn how to swim!
- Do not jump or dive into the shallow end of a pool.
- Keep away from pool drains, pipes, or other openings to avoid entrapments.
- Always keep a phone nearby.
- Learn CPR. It’s a lifesaving skill, literally.
- Install a fence, with self–closing and self–latching gates, around backyard swimming pools. Check local ordinances or laws to make sure you are in compliance.
- Avoid drinking alcohol before or during swimming and while supervising children.
Beach Safety
- See the latest beach closures and advisories.
- If you own a pet, remember to scoop the poop and dispose of it properly. Pet waste can pollute beaches and make people and animals sick. Follow local rules for pets at the beach, including rules for leashesMORE
Sun Safety
Protect yourself from exposure to the sun’s rays and reduce your risk of sunburn, skin cancer, and heat stress:
- Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and both UVA and UVB protection before you go outside, even on cloudy days.
- Reapply sunscreen after swimming or sweating or after staying outside for more than two hours.
- Wear clothing, sunglasses, and a hat with a wide brim to protect exposed skin.
- Seek shade, especially during midday hours.
- Drink plenty of fluids. MORE
Food Safety
- Eating out more this summer? Viewfood safety inspection reports for your favorite restaurants.
- Foodborne illnesses increase in warmer weather. Keep food safeduring cookouts and camping trips by handling, preparing, and cooking it properly.
Sources: www.health.ri.gov
