Health library

How to make your summer safe

Summer can bring warmth, sun and fun. But don't forget to add safety.

Summer fun, fitness, health and safety should be a package deal, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

CDC offers the following advice for a healthful summer.

Sun safety

Protect yourself from summer heat, UV rays and an increased risk of skin cancer by:

• Using sunscreen and lip balm with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher.
• Reapplying sunscreen often, especially after swimming.
• Wearing long sleeves and pants. Beat the heat with clothes that are lightweight, light in color and loose fitting.
• Drinking plenty of water.
• Planning strenuous exercise for cooler times of the day.

Water wisdom

Keep your family safe in and around the water by:

• Having close adult supervision for children swimming or playing near water.
• Not swimming alone. Teach your kids to always swim with a buddy too.
• Never drinking alcohol while swimming, boating, water skiing or supervising children.
• Planning swimming lessons for yourself and children older than 1 year.
• Maintaining your pool to avoid spreading infectious illnesses. Also avoid swallowing pool, lake or river water.

Food facts

Pay attention to food safety during the warm months:

• Cook all meat, poultry and fish thoroughly. Use a thermometer to make sure food is cooked all the way through.
• Avoid cross contamination by washing hands, utensils and cutting boards well after touching raw meat.
• Put leftovers in the refrigerator right away to prevent bacterial growth.
• Wash produce well before eating it.

Reviewed 2/26/2024