Memorial Day is almost here and for many people, this patriotic holiday marks the unofficial beginning of summer. With the warmer weather fast approaching, Kathy Carley-Spanier, director of Community Health at Greenwich Hospital, offers a few summer safety tips guaranteed to help protect you and your family throughout the season.
Protect Your Skin
1. Adults and children should always apply SPF 30 or higher sunscreen when outside. Don’t forget your back, feet and ears! Also, wear protective clothing, such as brimmed hats, long sleeved shirts, pants, and sunglasses for even more protection.
2. Reapply sunscreen every two hours, even on cloudy days. Use water resistant sunscreen while swimming or sweating.
3. Avoid sunburns, sun tanning and tanning beds, as it increases the risk of developing skin cancer.
4. Examine your skin regularly for new moles, blemishes, freckles and other marks. Any new moles or changes to existing moles should be evaluated by your healthcare provider.
Stay Safe and Hydrated
1. When it’s hot outside, remember to stay cool and hydrated.
2. Drink plenty of water especially if you work outside or exercise. Do not wait until you are thirsty!
3. Avoid direct sunlight and take breaks in air conditioned buildings.
4. Stay informed on weather conditions by checking your local news.
5. Limit outdoor activities, especially during the mid-day heat.
6. Never leave infants, children, adults or pets in a parked car.
It is also important to recognize the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, which include heavy sweating, weakness, nausea or vomiting, high body temperature and a rapid pulse. If you see these signs in an individual, immediately seek medical care. During extremely hot days, don’t forget to check on at-risk neighbors, friends and family, especially those with chronic medical conditions.
Each year, thousands of area residents benefit from Community Health at Greenwich Hospital’s broad array of wellness programs and services that promote health education.
Community Health is one of the beneficiaries of Greenwich Hospital’s annual Under the Stars fundraiser on June 24. For information about the event, or how to purchase tickets, please see the ad on the back of the main section.
