Sun Safety

It's that time of year where everyone wants to be outside longer, but heat can become a factor. With temperatures rising above 90 degrees it is important to keep yourself hydrated by drinking plenty of water, not soft drinks or alcohol. It is best to stay out of the sun between the hours of 12:00 pm and 3:00 pm.

Symptoms of Heatstroke or Sunstroke:
Headache, nausea, dizziness
Red, dry, very hot skin (sweating has ceased)
Pulse strong and rapid
Small pupils
Very high fever
May become extremely disoriented
Unconsciousness and possible convulsions

First aide for Heatstroke or Sunstroke:
Heatstroke is Life Threatening
Remove victim to cooler location out of the sun
Loosen or remove clothing and immerse victim with cool water, if possible. If immersion is not possible, cool victim with water or wrap in wet sheets and fan for quick evaporation
Use cold compresses-especially to the head and neck area also to armpit and groin area
Seek medical attention immediately
Continue first aid to lower temperature until medical help takes over
Do not use an alcohol rub

Along with heatstroke and sunstroke one can also get sunburn. Too much sun causes sunburn and it can afect or cause wrinkles, freckles, skin texture changes, dilated blood vessels, rash problems and skin cancer.

When going out into the sun follow these suggestions:
Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a SPF of at least 15 on all exposed skin, including lips, even on cloudy days
If exposed to water, either through swimming or sweating, a water-resistant sunscreen should be used
Reapply sunscreen frequently
Wear a broad-brimmed hat and sunglasses
Sit in the shade whenever possible
Wear protective tightly woven clothing
Plan outdoor activities early or late in the day to avoid peak sunlight hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.