Summer Fun Done Safely

Summer is just around the corner!  it’s my favorite time of the year! It’s when I can get outdoors and connect with nature more, whether it’s through a day at the park or just getting some summer projects started.

There are so many fun activities that can be created, even in your own backyard…

How about welcoming hummingbirds with a homemade or bought bird feeder?! Always choose a bird feeder that is easy to clean. Make your own nectar for in the feeder by using just a ¼ cup plain white sugar and one cup boiling water! Let the nectar cool and then fill the feeder and watch the magic begin when they zoom in for a special treat!

Another great back yard activity is to create a garden with some potted or planted tomato plants, peppers, cucumbers, or squash. Visit a flea market or yard sale to find inexpensive decorative pots to create colorful oasis in you backyard or patio. Fill your decorative pots with herbs such as thyme, oregano, or basil to add flavor in summer meals. These, along with fresh vegetables from the garden, will make your mealtime delicious and nutritious.   How about adding flowers in unique containers or pots to set around in favorite places in the yard or patio? These DIY (do it yourself) projects make a great hobby and brighten up your home.

There are so many activities that can be done in the summer, such as packing a picnic and visiting a park, fishing, hiking, gardening, swimming, or even golfing!  The possibilities are endless!

Before we dash out the door, there are some very important things to remember when venturing out this summer! The combination of both heat and humidity can bring many health concerns.

Here are some tips to help you stay safe this summer and beat the heat!

• Protect yourself against sunburn. Always apply sunscreen; sunburn can affect your body’s ability to cool itself. Wear hats and sunglasses when outside.
• Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids especially water! it will help your body sweat and maintain a normal body temperature.
• Be aware of common heat-related illnesses. Heat exhaustion, and heat stroke are very dangerous.
  • Heat exhaustion is when your body loses the ability to cool its core temperature. You will see symptoms like cool moist skin and goosebumps, heavy sweating, fatigue, rapid pulse, faintness, and more.
  • Heat stroke is a severe form of heat exhaustion that occurs when the body temperature exceeds 104°. Symptoms include confusion, red skin, headache, and dizziness.

• NEVER sit in a hot car. When parked in the sun the temperature in your car can rise 20 degrees Fahrenheit in just 10 minutes!
• Avoid strenuous activity in hot weather. Limit your time in the sun, especially between 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Try to plan activities in early morning or evening.
• Check with your doctor or pharmacist about medications prescribed for you. Some prescribed medications can affect your body’s ability to stay hydrated and dissipate heat.

Summer is such a beautiful time of the year and gives us so many opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors! Remember these important tips to keep your summer safe, fun, and healthy. Be sure to get out there; soak in all your favorites of the season or try something new.