As we (happily) welcome in the warmer weather, it is important to protect our future selves from the damage that the warm rays can leave on our skin. Here are our top tips for staying sun safe this summer!
Use Sunscreen
This is the first and most important step of sun safety! Everyone has heard this one time and time again, but sunscreen is the protective barrier that keeps our skin healthy and happy. The correct way to apply sunscreen is 15-minutes before you are going to be exposed to direct sunlight. By applying sunscreen early, you assist it in absorbing into your skin to protect you from the sun. Ensure to apply sunscreen on every part of your body that is exposed to the element. Once applied, you should reapply every 2-hours and after you have been sweating or in the water to ensure ultimate protection. When looking for the best sunscreen to provide you the most protection, look for one with at least 15 SPF that protects from both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays.
Wear Protective Clothing
Bucket hats are not only a style statement, they also protect you from the sun! Wearing wide-brimmed hats and long sleeves in the sun add an extra layer of protection that will keep your skin safe. Hats also help protect the most commonly missed areas when applying sunscreen, the scalp and the ears. When thinking about what to wear on a sunny day opt for light colours instead of the black clothing we tend to always reach for! Light colours keep your body cooler on the warmest days of the year.
Rock those Shades
Did you know the rays from the sun can harm your eyes and can potentially cause problems for you in the future? So, not only do sunglasses make you look cool and up your style game, they also protect your eyes as well! The best way to pick glasses that will keep you safe in the sun is not looking for the most expensive or stylish ones, but instead looking for sunglasses that guarantee protection from 99-100% of UVA and UVB rays.
Stay Hydrated
When spending time in the sun it is important to stay hydrated. If you plan to spend a lot of time outside, be sure to pack and drink lots of cool liquids, especially water. It is important to make sure you keep drinking throughout the day before your body starts to tell you you're thirsty. The last thing you want to do is get behind on your hydration intake as dehydration is the first major cause of heat stroke.
Take the Time to Stay Cool
On hot days utilize the lake, a pool, or a misting device to stay extra cool. If you have none of those options readily available to you, use your RV awnings, a tall tree or an umbrella to seek shade. Did you know that if your shadow is shorter than you are then that is when the sun's rays are at their strongest? More often than not, this time of day is usually between 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. If you cannot stay inside during these times, it is important to seek shade to protect yourself.
Know the Signs of Heat Stroke
Although these tips will help protect you while outdoors in the summer, you may still be susceptible to heat stroke on those really, really hot days. Here are the most common signs of heat stroke that you should look out for:
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High body temperatures (40 degrees Celsius or higher)
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Altered mental state or behaviours (confusion, irritability, delirium, etc.)
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Alteration in sweating (skin feels hot and dry)
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Nausea and vomiting
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Flushed skin
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Rapid breathing
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Racing heart rate
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Headache
If you notice any of these signs in yourself or anyone else, seek immediate shade or an indoor area with air conditioning. Make sure to remove excess clothing and to cool yourself or the other person down with whatever you have around (cold shower, hose, cold towel, fan, ice packs, etc.) If symptoms become worse, make sure to seek medical attention immediately.
Remember to stay safe this summer while adventuring the great outdoors! Happy camping!