Summer Heat Safety Tips

18th May, 2017

Summer Heat Safety Tips:


As summer approaches and the heat wave begins, people are trying to find ways to stay cool. During the hot summer months, certain groups of people are more prone to heat strokes. Children, pregnant women and the elderly are more likely to get a heat stroke if exposed to sun for too long.


To prevent this, here are some time-tested tips:


1. Drink plenty of fluids.
    An important part of beating the heat is ensuring that you are staying hydrated, especially if you are outdoors. Drink non-sugar drinks, teas, and water. Water is always the BEST source to staying hydrated!

2. Wear UVA/UVB protective sunglasses. As we age, our eyes become dryer and more sensitive to light. Make sure to protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses anytime you are outdoors. It is important that the sunglasses have a tag or sticker that says "UVA & UVB" protection.

3. Wear Sunscreen and hats when outdoors. Wearing sunscreen with a stronger SPF (between 30 and 60) is recommended. This prevents you from getting sunburned and decrease the risk of developing skin cancer. Wearing a hat, especially if you are bald, prevents your head from getting overheated. It shields you from the harsh rays and is very important to wear any time you are outside in the sun.

4. Try to avoid being outside during the peak heat hours. The greatest heat is between the hours of 12 pm and 6pm. Try to stay in the shade or indoors during these hours.

5. If you are an older adult who does not own an air conditioner, consider going to a "cooling center." Sometimes cities set up "cooling centers" in public places, such as libraries, where people without AC's can go to cool down.


Take these tips into consideration and have a fun and safe summer!

Preventing Skin Cancer

29th of March, 2017

Preventing Skin Cancer:

With summer around the corner, one of the main affects of skin cancer is radiation from the sun. Constant exposure to the sun increases the risk of developing various forms of skin cancer. This occurs when the rays from the sun alter the DNA make up in your cells and cells begin to grow exponentially. The lighter your complexion, the more sensitive and susceptible you are to the damaging affects of the sun.


You are also more likely to get skin cancer if you have a family history of skin cancer. Moles, birthmarks and lesion also increase the risks. Excessive exposure to sun leading to sunburns also increases your risks for cancer. Older people, children and people with weakened immune systems are also at a higher risk for developing skin cancer.



So here are some ways to prevent skin cancer:
Use a broad spectrum sunscreen (UVA and UVB) whenever you are outside for long periods of time. Lather it on your face, hands and any areas exposed to the sun. It is important to use sunscreen  and not just at the beach - use it every day.

Protect your eyes and make use of sunglasses. When you purchase them make sure that the label includes UVA & UVB protection.

Avoid the sun during the harshest times. 10am-3pm is the time of day and is when sun should be avoided. If you NEED to be outside during those times - by all means cover up your head and parts of your body with clothing to avoid harsh sun exposure.

An overall healthy lifestyle also decreases the risks of all types of cancers. Eat a healthy, balanced diet, avoid smoking and excess alcohol use and maintain an exercise regimen.

Finally, visit a skin doctor at least once a year. It is important to have your skin looked at by a professional for any warning signs!