With summer right around the corner, it’s never too early to start preparing yourself and your family for the season ahead. In addition to preparations like making sure your air conditioner is working and planning a family vacation (assuming no virus danger), it is also a smart idea to refresh your memory about summer health hazards so that you can stock up on supplies and be more mindful about your environment.
Here are the most common health risks – besides Covid 19 – to be aware of this summer and how to beat them in a natural and sustainable way.
Sun Damage
In the summertime, many of us spend more time outside in the sun. Sunburns can occur anywhere, including at the beach, in the yard, or on a hiking trail. Rather than relying upon sun-care products that are packed with chemicals, you can take a more natural approach to caring for summer skin. Natural DIY remedies for sunburned skin include a mixture of extra virgin olive oil and tomato, an oatmeal bath, cucumbers, and Seagate’s OliveViate Topical Relief.
Dehydration
Dehydration is a major concern in the summer because of prolonged exposure in the heat and increased alcohol consumption at summer parties. Signs that you may be dehydrated include dark yellow-colored urine, fatigue, and headaches. You can be prepared and avoid dehydration by keeping track of your water consumption each summer day and eating water-rich foods like zucchini and grapefruit.
Food Poisoning
Food poisoning is more common in the summer because of picnics and backyard parties where perishable foods are left outside in the heat and sun. To avoid food poisoning, make a point to refrigerate perishable foods as soon as possible after serving them outdoors and toss away any leftovers that have been sitting out in the sun for a few hours.
Yard-Related Accidents
Spending time outside in your yard can be a joy in the summertime, but it can also pose health hazards if you aren’t careful. Lawn mowers, patio grills, and backyard pools are all potential risks for your health in the summer. Be prepared for these risks by being alert and cautious when you do yard work and monitoring the activities of children while spending time in the yard.
Water-Related Accidents
Cooling off in the water is a great way to beat the summertime heat, but you’ll need to be extra cautious around water to prevent drowning. Boating accidents are common in the summer, but many terrible situations can be avoided by wearing life vests and ensuring that your family members know how to swim. When swimming in the outdoors, pay attention to the tides and weather patterns so that you aren’t swept out to sea.
Lighting Strikes
Thunderstorms bring much-needed rain and beautiful displays of nature to summer days, but they can also be dangerous if you are caught outside in a storm. When you see a storm coming or know one is on its way because of the weather forecast, head indoors where it is safe to avoid being struck by lightning. If you can’t get into an enclosed building, find shelter from lighting in a vehicle with a hard metal top and rubber tires.
Biting and Stinging Insects
Mosquitos and other insects that bite and sting pose risks in the summer to your skin and overall health. To repel insects without harmful chemicals, try using citronella candles, catnip, and herbs and essential oils like lavender and rosemary.
Poisonous Plants
Rashes caused by poison ivy and poison oak are also concerning in the summer, so it’s a good idea to get familiar with what these plants look like so you can avoid contact with them. Natural treatments for poisonous plant rashes include apple cider vinegar, baking soda, and Seagate’s Stop Rash spray with an omega-3 fish liver oil base to nourish damaged skin.