Beating the Heat: 3 Summer Safety Reminders
Summer Safety Checklist
- Stay hydrated and take breaks from the heat.
- Apply sunscreen regularly.
- Know the signs of heat illness—heat stroke is a medical emergency.
- Wear life jackets and never swim alone or under the influence.
- Keep bonfires away from structures and vegetation, and keep water nearby.
- Cool minor burns with running water.
- Seek emergency care for burns that blister, bleed, appear white or charred, or are larger than the size of your hand.
Summers in Upstate New York are full of joyful activities like bonfires, pool days, and lakeside fun. While enjoying sunny days and warm nights, it’s important to remember to stay safe.
URochester Medicine physician and professor of Clinical Medicine Louis Papa, MD, shares tips to help protect you and your family all summer long, including advice about:
Heat Exhaustion
Early signs of heat exhaustion are fatigue, nausea, light-headedness, and dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, get out of the sun as soon as possible.
More symptoms of heat exhaustion include:
- Headache
- Dizziness or fainting
- Sweating
- Cold, clammy skin
- Increased heart rate
- Weakness
- Muscle cramps
- Excessive thirst
Heat Stroke
Heat stroke occurs when the body can no longer control its temperature. Heat stroke is a more critical condition than heat exhaustion and requires immediate medical attention.
Signs of heat stroke include:
- Headache
- Confusion or delirium
- Loss of consciousness
- Lack of perspiration
- Hot, red, dry skin
- Nausea or vomiting
- Rapid heart rate
- Elevated body temperature
Very young children and elderly adults are more vulnerable to severe reactions to heat-related illnesses. "Pay extra attention to them and seek medical help at the first sign of any symptom."
What should I do if someone shows signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke?
If someone is experiencing heat exhaustion:
- Get them out of the sun and the heat.
- Lay them down to help them cool down.
- Apply cool compresses and cool blankets.
- If it’s safe enough for them, encourage a cool shower.
Should they drink water? If someone is very confused, only give them small sips of water. If you suspect heat stroke, do not try to give them water, as they could choke on it. Ensure the person understands your instructions before offering them water.
If someone demonstrates symptoms of heat stroke, call 9-1-1 or head to the nearest emergency department.
Safety First: Swimming and Water Safety
Whether at the lake, the ocean, or the pool, don't forget that water brings new risks for children and families. Dr. Papa reminds us that swim toys are simply that: toys. Dr. Papa recommends that all folks wear a life jacket in the water instead. Always remember to:
- Use the buddy system. Even strong swimmers should have someone with them in case of emergency.
- Be aware of your environment, including ocean and river currents, vegetation, water temperature, and shallow water.
- Always swim sober.
- Wear a life jacket. When participating in water activities and boating, always take safety precautions.
Fire Safety: Bonfires, Grilling and Preventing Burns
There’s nothing like the smell of a summer bonfire, but a friendly fire can flare up in an instant if you aren’t careful. Here are Dr. Papa’s fire safety must-dos:
- Placement is key: Make sure nothing is nearby that could catch fire. Avoid wood structures and look out for vegetation around and above the flames.
- Eliminate fall risks: Clear the area of anything that could cause someone to trip and fall into the fire.
- Pay attention: There should always be one or two people monitoring the bonfire. These folks should remain sober and be attentive to the fire, all attendees, and all surroundings.
What should I do if someone gets burned?
Burn injuries should be addressed immediately, and appropriate treatment depends on their severity.
How to Cool a Minor Burn
For minor, superficial burns—those with some redness but no blistering—cool the affected area under running water for about 20 minutes. Avoid ice, butter, oils, or ointments, as they can further damage the skin. After cooling, gently clean the area and cover it with a clean, dry bandage.
Those with a superficial burn should consider evaluation by their primary care physician if symptoms don't improve.
When to Seek Emergency Care for a Burn
If a burn is severe and shows signs of blistering, bleeding, or white or charred skin, seek immediate medical attention. Burns larger than the size of your hand, with white or charred skin, should be evaluated in an emergency department. Call 9-1-1 if the injury is life-threatening.
If you’re enjoying a bonfire near woods, water, or tall grasses, another thing to consider is protection against ticks, mosquito bites, and other insect-related concerns. Learn tips on preventing and managing tick bites.
Safer, Healthier Summers
Explore our Summer Health and Safety Guide for expert tips on heat, hydration, bug bites, sun protection, water safety, and when to seek care.
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