Summer Safety Tips for Staying Active

We’ve finally reached the heat of summer, and it is a great time to get outside and appreciate everything the season has to offer. From beach days to hiking adventures to traveling to new and interesting places, there is something for everyone to enjoy. As much as we love the warm weather and long, sunny days, it can be difficult to take care of ourselves and have fun at the same time. Here is our compiled list of summer safety tips so everyone can stay safe and healthy all season long!

Stay hydrated

Staying hydrated is important every day of the year, but especially in the heat. Drinking plenty of water or drinks with electrolytes throughout the day (and avoiding sugary or caffeinated drinks) keep our bodies functioning on even the hottest days (Hot Weather Safety for Older Adults 2022). Don’t forget your furry friends either– make sure your pets have plenty of water too!

Check the weather

The weather can be pretty unpredictable in the summer, so staying up to date on the forecast can be crucial to staying safe. Along with the temperature, many reports provide information on other metrics like the heat index/feels-like temperature (considers the air temperature and humidity levels), the UV index (measures ultraviolet radiation and can help determine when to use protection from the sun), air quality levels, and much more. This information is useful when planning out your day or deciding what you will need to fully enjoy any outings you go on (7 Essential Summer Safety Tips For All Ages. 2022). For accurate weather information for your area, www.weather.gov allows you to search your city and state or your zip code to find local forecasts and data.

Use sun protection

Anytime the UV index is moderate or higher (level 3 or above), actions should be taken to avoid any skin damage (Radiation: The ultraviolet (UV) index 2022). These include wearing and reapplying proper amounts of sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, seeking shade during midday hours, or even avoiding going outside when the UV index is high. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that everyone use sunscreen that offers the following:

• Broad-spectrum protection (protects against UVA and UVB rays)
• SPF 30 or higher
• Water resistance

They also recommend that adults apply 1 ounce (about a shot glass) of sunscreen to dry skin 15 minutes before going outdoors and reapply every two hours, or sooner if sweating or swimming. For all this information and more on how to protect yourself from the sun, visit this great resource from the American Academy of Dermatology: Sunscreen FAQs

Plan indoor activities

For especially warm days, it can be better to spend time indoors during the middle of the day when it is hottest. Head to your local shopping mall, movie theater, library, or community center for some fun away from the sun. Have lunch with a friend or read that book that’s been on your shelf for a while at home. Closing curtains and window shades can help keep your house cool during the day, and opening windows at night can create airflow (Hot Weather Safety for Older Adults 2022). Similarly, some houseplants, like rubber plants, palms, and snake plants, can help cool down your space naturally by releasing evaporated water into the air (Beat the heatwave — 5 houseplants that will actually keep your home cool 2022)!

Plan your exercise routine wisely

Take advantage of the slightly cooler mornings and evenings by dedicating any physical activity to those times or take advantage of any indoor exercise facilities you have access to if you plan to be active midday. Try to plan any walking or running routes for cooler, shady areas, and be sure to take breaks as needed. Wear sunscreen if you’re outside and make sure to bring your water!

If you want to stay active this summer, check out the SilverStrides walking app!