General News

Health Unit offers summer festival and outdoor health tips

August 15, 2024   ·   0 Comments

By Brian Lockhart

The summer provides many opportunities for gatherings with family and friends as well as the chance to attend outdoor events and festivals.

The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit is offering tips on how to participate in events and stay healthy while enjoying the summer.

Sun and heat, while enjoyable during the summer months, can also be the cause of heat-related illness and sunburn.

Stay in a cool, shaded area when the sun is out or bring your own source of shade. Use a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, as well as lip balm.

Wear light-coloured loose-fitting clothing covering as much of the body as possible.

Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoid alcoholic and caffeine beverages.

If you or anyone else has symptoms of heat stroke, get help immediately. 

Symptoms include, not sweating, flushed or pale skin, nausea or vomiting, confusion or disorientation, difficulty speaking, and feeling lethargic.

If you are having a picnic, you should take precautions when it comes to food.

Store raw meats, poultry, fish, and eggs separately from other foods to prevent cross-contamination of bacteria. Pack two sets of utensils and use one set for raw meats only. Keep perishable foods cold and pack them in an insulated cooler with ice packs.

Never leave perishable foods out for more than 1 to 2 hours.

When you are outdoors, you are in tick and mosquito habitats. Avoid or limit your time outdoors at dusk or dawn, as this is when mosquitoes are most active.

When in grassy or wooded areas, wear light-coloured, long-sleeved shirts, pants and shoes with closed toes.

Use an insect repellent containing DEET or Icaridin.

When you get home, do a full body tick check on yourself and your family, including pets.

If you choose to drink at a summer event or gathering, you should keep in mind recommendations to reduce the harm associated with alcohol.

No amount of alcohol is safe when pregnant.

Alcohol impairs your judgment, coordination, and reaction time. Arrange a way home in advance if you are planning to drink at an event.

Mixing alcohol with other drugs can be dangerous and sometimes fatal.

Enjoy summer events and festivals by following these tips to make sure you have a safe and enjoyable experience.

Readers Comments (0)