Whether you’re young or old, nothing beats the feeling of a day spent outdoors in the warm sunshine. Summers are made of beach days, campfire nights, and outdoor sports. Many of us wait all year for these few months of perfect weather and outdoor fun. Whether you’re swimming the Atlantic or suiting up for a friendly game of baseball, there are a few tips for keeping yourself safe all summer long.
Tips For Outdoor Summer Safety:
- Play Safely: Summer sports pose the same risks as winter and fall sports. New Jersey orthopedic surgeons urge players to take note of the heat, wear proper footwear, and avoid the temptation to jump right into the game without properly warming up your muscles.
- Bask In The Sun Safely: Between sunburns, heat rash, heat stroke, and cancer, there are infinite numbers of reasons for sun safety. Before you and your family head to the beach or the ball field, take a few precautions. Slather up in sunblock with an SPF of at least 30. Wear sun protective clothing and hats. Little ones and the elderly should take even more precautions with protective clothing and sunscreen. Don’t let heat stroke or a sunburn ruin your summer days.
- Skip The Flip-Flops: Sure, they’re cute, but chasing little ones or friends in the grass while wearing flip flops is dangerous. These adorable sandals offer zero support for your ankles, calves, and core and put your body at risk for a sports injury. Save the flip-flops for the beach and opt for shoes that offer the needed support for outdoor sports and recreation.
- Hydrate Regularly: Heat stroke is a leading summer injury. While chasing little ones around the park or hitting baseballs with friends, stay hydrated. Bring a water bottle and refill it at least once an hour. If you start to feel woozy or faint, stop what you’re doing to rehydrate and rest for 15 or 20 minutes.
Following these basic summer safety tips will help prevent injury, illness, and sunburn all season long. If you’re suffering from an injury and need a specialist’s care before the season gets underway, call AOSMI today to request an appointment with an orthopedic specialist.
Advanced Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Institute is a medical practice located in Freehold and Monroe, NJ, our medical professionals are experts in orthopedic surgery, joint replacement, sports medicine, integrative wellness, spine care, physical therapy, and more.
