By Murray Buck, DO, Urgent Care Physician – Virtua Urgent Care

Summer has a well-earned reputation as the season for fun. Don’t let an injury or illness get in the way. Here’s how to stay safe this summer.

Be Sun Smart

Wear sunscreen every day—even when it’s overcast—and apply it everywhere not covered by clothing. No matter the brand of sunscreen you choose, it should be water resistant, offer broad protection, and have an SPF factor of 30 or more.

When you can, wear long sleeves and pants made with synthetic fibers. Top off the look with a brimmed hat and sunglasses that block UVA and UVB rays.

Prevent Burn Injuries

Sunburns aren’t the only summer hazard. Fireworks and grills can also be sources of painful burns. To protect yourself and your family:

• Leave the fireworks to professionals.
• Handle sparklers with care, and don’t let young children play with them.
• Move the grill well away from the house and overhanging branches. Steer kids and pets clear—and never leave a hot grill unattended.

If you do get burned, stay calm. Run cool, not cold, water over the area. Then apply petroleum jelly and a clean bandage. Don’t put ice, butter, or grease on a burn.

Go to the nearest urgent care or hospital emergency room if the burn is:

• Red, blistered, or swollen—and very painful
• White or charred-looking with no feeling in the area
• Larger than the size of the palm of your hand
• Located on your eyes, mouth, hands, or genitals, even if it’s a milder burn

Avoid Foodborne Illnesses

Bacteria thrive in hot weather. Keep perishable foods chilled, and discard items left out for more than an hour.

Drink Plenty of Water

Be sure to drink extra fluids in hot weather to replace what you lose in sweat.

Make water your go-to beverage—aim to drink about 8 ounces of water every 10 to 20 minutes while active. Avoid alcoholic or sugary drinks, which actually make your body lose more fluid.

Be Mindful Around the Water

Drowning is a leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 4. Adults 65 and older have the second highest rate of drowning.

Know your capabilities and the capabilities of your loved ones in the pool, ocean, lakes, rivers, and hot tubs. Keep your non-swimming toddler at arm’s length when close to water.

Prevent Falls

During the summer, older people are at an increased risk of falls. This is due to factors like heat, dehydration, medications, and summer travel to unfamiliar places and terrain.

While outdoors, wear shoes with nonslip soles that provide good support, walk on smooth, stable paths rather than uneven surfaces, and avoid wet grass and slick pavement. Inside, use available grab bars and keep rooms free of clutter. Be sure to stay hydrated and eat a well-balanced diet to maintain your strength.

Urgent Care When You Need It

Reliable, high-quality urgent care is as close as your phone, laptop, or tablet. Schedule your Virtua Urgent Care Telehealth visit and get back to the fun in no time!