Staying Safe in the Summer Heat
Summer is the time to be outdoors! It is time to have some fun in the sun with friends and family. During the summer months, the temperature can be unbearable and it is important to understand how to stay safe during this season. There are many health risks associated with summer and it is important to stay safe, so you can continue to have fun. Now more than ever, staying healthy and safe is a priority in our society. At Hillandale Primary Care, it is our main goal to keep our patients happy, healthy, and safe so they can have live their best quality of life.
Barbeque Safety
Set an alarm or timer to advise you to cool or freeze leftovers within 2 hours of serving. At your next outdoor occasion where the weather is 90 degrees F or above, get rid of any foods left within one hour of serving,” Golden stated. The Florida Department of Health (FDOH) advises you to take precautions when barbecuing.
Other suggestions include just barbecuing outdoors; location grill far from buildings, deck railings, and overhanging trees or items; keep children and animals far from the grilling location; keep the grill clean by removing grease or buildup from grates and the bottom tray; utilize a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of food 145 degrees for whole meats, 160 for ground meats and 165 for poultry; and never ever leave the grill unattended.
Mosquito Safety
Like most summers in Florida, the mosquito population has risen and is effecting outdoor activities. For medical professionals, they are most concerned about mosquito bites and the infections and secondary (bacterial) infections they can cause.
Infants can be covered with clothing and mosquito netting. For older children, utilize one with less than 30 percent DEET and for people who are out in the heat for extended periods of time, utilize 50 percent or greater. The repellent is safe for pregnant women and nursing mothers. Follow the maker’s recommendations: Don’t apply to open cuts or abrasions, don’t apply near eyes or mouth, do not let your children apply it themselves, you might apply repellent to clothing, and make certain to clean your skin and clothing afterward.
While mosquito bites are irritating and can be itchy, the problem can be with illness brought on by Zika, dengue, and chikungunya viruses that mosquitoes carry. The CDC has actually provided a travel notice (Level 2 Alert-Practice Improved Precautions) for individuals taking a trip to places with the Zika infection. They recommend considering that Zika can cause abnormality, pregnant women shouldn’t take a trip to any area where the Zika virus is active.
Pay Attention to Weather Report and Be Safe
Summertime is a fun time to be active outdoors. Various weather conditions and natural variables can pose a danger to health for some. Stay updated on regional weather forecasts so you can prepare. Individuals 65 and older, infants and children, and people with chronic medical conditions are typically more vulnerable.
Remain in air-conditioned structures as much as possible. Avoid direct sunshine. Limit your outside activities to the cooler parts of the day before 10:30 a.m. or after 5:30. p.m. Dress in lightweight and light-colored clothing. Take cool showers or baths. Look at those most at-risk two times a day. Drink more water than typical.
Talk to Your Doctor
Summer is a time to have fun and enjoy the outdoors. At Hillandale Primary Care your safety and quality of life are important to us. Stay safe as you enjoy the outdoors, but be sure to pay attention to how you are feeling. You may want to check with your doctor about any additional steps you need to take to be safe. It is a great time to speak to your doctor about any health concerns or questions you may have. Call or contact us today!
