Safety Tip Tuesday: Fun in the Sun

Summer is here and while enjoying the outdoors may be on everyone's mind, safety must come first!
San Diego is known for it's beautiful weather and high temperatures often drive residence to the beach, but before you step out, check out these tips to ensure a safe day in the sun:

• Stay Hydrated: Our paramedics and EMT's see many cases of dehydration throughout the summer months. This can cause serious health problems for many people, especially children and the elderly. Carry water or juice with you, and remember to intake fluids, even if you do not feel thirsty. Water is the safest liquid to drink during heat emergencies.
• Dress for the Heat: Wear a hat, and breathable, moisture-wicking, light-colored clothing. Light colors will reflect away some of the sun's energy.
• Slow Down: If you must do strenuous activity, do it during the coolest parts of the day, generally before 7 a.m. and after 7 p.m.

Also, be aware of the common problems associated with heat and dehydration and how to treat them:

• Heat Cramps: Painful spasms usually in the muscles of legs and abdomen. Heavy sweating. First Aid: Firm pressure on cramping muscles or gentle massage to relieve spasm. Give sips of water. If nausea occurs, discontinue water.
• Heat Exhaustion: Heavy sweating, weakness, skin cold, pale and clammy. Pulse thready. Normal temperature possible. Fainting and vomiting. First Aid: Get victim out of sun. Once inside, the person should lay down and loosen clothing. Apply cool, wet cloths. Fan or move victim to air conditioned room. Offer sips of water. If nausea occurs, discontinue water. If vomiting continues, seek immediate medical attention.
• Heat Stroke: High body temperature (106° F or higher). Hot dry skin. Rapid and strong pulse. Possible unconsciousness. First Aid: Heat stroke is a sever medical emergency. Call 911 immediately. White waiting for emergency assistance, move the victim to a cooler environment Reduce body temperature with cold bath or sponging. Use extreme caution. Remove clothing, use fans and air conditioners. If temperature rises again, repeat process. Do not give fluids. Persons on salt restrictive diets should consult a physician before increasing their salt intake.

Follow these tips and educate yourself on the risks of sun and heat exposure. If you would like to know more information on safety and how to prepare for emergencies, visit our website at http://www.sdmse.com/.

Stay Safe!