It's summer! We hope that you've been enjoying time with your family, friends, and loved ones. Have you noticed that it's hotter than usual outside? Reports have stated that in many parts of the world, June was the hottest June observed on earth to date.

What can you do to protect yourself and loved ones from the scorching sun and baking heat, while enjoying the water at the beach, or pool? We've got answers for you. We've created a list of sun, water, and heat safety tips to equip you to enjoy your summer safely, while creating lasting memories.

Sun Safety

1. Wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside and reapply it every two hours, or more often if you are sweating or swimming.
2. Seek shade during the hottest part of the day, which is typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
3. Cover up with clothing that protects your skin from the sun. You could wear lightweight long sleeves, and pants, as well as a hat, and sunglasses. Go ahead, select great items to make your fashion statement!
4. Avoid tanning beds. Tanning beds emit ultraviolet (UV) rays that contribute to the formation of skin cancer.
5. Check your skin for any changes regularly. You can schedule it on your calendar. If you notice any new moles or changes in existing moles, see a doctor tout de suite.

Water Safety

1. Always wear a life jacket when boating, swimming, or playing in, or near bodies of water.
2. Avoid swimming alone. You need a buddy to help you in the event of an emergency.
3. Be aware of your surroundings and the dangers of rip currents, currents, and tides.
4. Learn how to swim safely, as well as how to rescue someone who is drowning.
5. Check the weather forecast before you go swimming, and ensure that you are aware of the potential for thunderstorms and lightning.

Heat Safety

1. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, including water and electrolytes.
2. Avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day.
3. Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. Dark colors absorb heat rapidly.
4. Take cool showers or baths, after spending a lot of time outside.
5. If you start to feel hot, dizzy, or nauseated, move to a cooler spot and drink plenty of fluids.

These are just a few tips for sun safety, water safety, and heat safety. By following these tips, you can help protect yourself and your loved ones from the dangers of the sun, water, and heat.

Bonus Tips:

• If you are taking medication, check with your doctor to determine if it makes you more sensitive to sunlight.
• If you have a history of skin cancer, it is crucial that you do your best to protect your skin from the sun.
• Children tend to be more susceptible to the harmful effects of the sun; therefore, it is important take extra precautions when they are outdoors, to ensure that they are hydrated and comfortable.

One More Thing: It is critical to be aware of the potential for heatstroke in hot weather. According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), heatstroke is a medical emergency that can occur when your body can no longer regulate its temperature, and the body temperature spikes to a high level. Symptoms of heatstroke include a high body temperature, confusion, seizures, and loss of consciousness. If you think someone is experiencing heatstroke, call 911 immediately to get them the help that they need.

By implementing these tips, you can help to protect yourself and your loved ones from the adverse effects of the sun, water, and heat during this summer season.