May has arrived and that means summer and the heat are right around the corner. There are some precautionary measures everyone, especially children, should take to keep their skin and body healthy throughout the rough summer sun and heat.While it is important to do outdoor activities and have fun in the sun it is also important that you and your children are well protected and hydrated.
First rule of summer is SUNBLOCK! Always make sure you and your kiddos are slathered up in sunblock. This is the one and only thing that can help your skin stay young looking and healthy. Just one sunburn can potentially double your chances of getting skin cancer. This is especially important for children and adults with fairer skin that are more easily burned. Be sure that you cover all areas when applying sunscreen, it is easy to miss areas you can’t see so be sure to ask for help when applying. Make sure that you reapply throughout the day if you plan on being out in the sun for several hours. Hats, sunglasses, and other protective clothing will also help you and your children avoid any severe sun damage. Summer will be more fun if you take extra precautions to be sure you do not get a sunburn.
The second rule of summer is WATER! It is very important that you stay hydrated in the summer heat. It is so easy to forget to drink water when you are out playing in the yard with the kids and your family. When you don’t stay properly hydrated it can cause your body to shut down and you may feel weak. Be sure that you are drinking as much water as your body needs every day. You do not want to faint or have a heat stroke from dehydration. Try to carry a bottle of water with you everywhere you go so you and your kids will never be thirsty this summer even when you are out running errands.
Summer is a time to have fun, enjoy the sunshine, and time spent outside with your friends and family. Don’t let your good times of summer get ruined with a painful sunburn or dehydration. Remember sunblock and water all summer long to take care of yourself!