While you’re soaking up all that vitamin D during the warm weather months, don’t soak up too much. Overexposure to UV rays can cause premature skin aging, skin cancer, eye problems, and more. At the same time, there’s more to protecting yourself than simply applying the highest SPF sunscreen you can buy.
Here are some detailed tips on how to keep those UV rays to a minimum while also preventing dehydration.
Protect your skin
For best results, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and apply it generously 15-20 minutes before heading outdoors.
Reapply it every 2 hours or even more often if you go for regular swims. And don’t hold back – keeping a steady supply of sunscreen on hand is a small price to pay to help maintain your good health. Remember too that babies 6 months old and younger should not use sunscreen, so keep them out of the sun as best you can or dress them in light layers of clothing.
For added protection, wear UV blocking sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat. If you have fair skin, red hair, or a history of skin moles, be sure to take extra precautions.
Stay cool
It might be tempting to plant your beach chair in the sand or by the pool and spend the whole day sunning yourself. But that only raises the risk of sunburn and dehydration. So, take frequent breaks and make sure you drink plenty of water, especially on extra-hot days. Remember that water reflects the sun’s rays, so while you might feel like a swim cools you down, it actually increases your exposure to the sun.
Know the signs
Stay safe by understanding the signs of dehydration. The most common are increased thirst, dry mouth, swollen tongue, weakness, dizziness, and decreased urine output. If you suspect mild to moderate dehydration, drink plenty of water and find a cool, shady spot to rest in. For severe dehydration (often characterized by a fever, vomiting, difficulty breathing and/or fainting), seek medical attention right away.
When it’s time to head back indoors, you’re not looking for more heat. You want the cool, comforting feeling that only your central AC can provide. To help ensure it continues to work at peak performance, contact Air Professionals for our very thorough AC preventive maintenance service. Fewer repairs, longer equipment life, and reduced electricity bills are just a few of the benefits you’ll enjoy.