Tips for staying safe in summer

On Monday, Americans across the country observed Memorial Day. This holiday, to honor those who have lost their lives serving our country, is often thought of as the “unofficial start of summer.”

While summer doesn’t actually start until the summer solstice on June 21, temperatures are already climbing. Even temperatures in the high 70s and low 80s, like those forecast for our region this week, can seem hot if you are taking part in strenuous work or exercising outdoors. With months of hot weather on the horizon, here are some tips to beat the heat.

• Stay Hydrated. In our dry climate, sweat evaporates quickly, so it may not seem like you’re sweating as much as you are. Remember, sweating is one of the main ways our body keeps cool, and you may be losing lots of water that way. Be sure to replenish all that lost fluid by drinking plenty of water.

• Seek shade. If you’re outdoors and feeling hot, seek out a spot sheltered from the sun. You can also seek refuge from the heat in a building with air conditioning if the heat becomes too much. There are plenty of fun indoor things to do on the hottest days, like a trip to the museum or bowling alley.

• Be safe in the sun. Avoid the pain of sunburn and the long-term health consequences of sun exposure by putting on sunscreen before you go out, and re-applying as needed while working, exercising, or recreating outdoors.

• Moderate your physical activity. Working outdoors or exercising in the heat can take a toll on the body. Stay active, but don’t push yourself too hard, and remember to take breaks to cool off and rehydrate. If you need to exercise or work outdoors, do so in the morning or in the evening, when it’s cooler.

• Check on elderly neighbors. Seniors are particularly at risk of health problems in the heat. If you have older neighbors, check on them to make sure they are well.

• Our Animal Services Division wants to remind residents to never leave pets in hot vehicles. When it’s hot outside, temperatures inside a car can quickly soar, posing a danger to animals trapped inside. Also, make sure any pets left at home have access to plenty of water, especially on hot days.

For more information about Health Department services, check out our website at www.gethealthycarsoncity.org or “like” us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CCHHS.

Carson City Health and Human Services; 900 E. Long St.; 775-887-2195; Clinic Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday-Wednesday and Friday by appointment; Well-Child visits are 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Mondays; Men’s Clinic is 4-6 p.m. Mondays; Call for an appointment: 775-887-2195; Thursday is Immunization Day − No appointment needed; 8:30-11:30 a.m.; 1-4:30 p.m.

Douglas County Community Health; 1538 Highway 395 North; Call 775-782-9038; Clinic Hours: Monday 8:30 a.m.-noon; Tuesday-Friday 8:30 a.m.-4:30 pm; Monday afternoon is Immunization Day – No appointment needed; 1-4:30 p.m.