General News

Health unit offers tips on enjoying outdoor festivities

July 10, 2023   ·   0 Comments

By Brian Lockhart

Many of us look forward to enjoying outdoor events and festivals through the summer.

With that in mind, the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU) is offering tips on how to help ensure your experiences are healthy and enjoyable.

When attending an outdoor event, you can protect yourself from heat-related illnesses, such as heat stroke, by staying hydrated and staying in cool, shaded areas when the sun is out.

Wear light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing and a hat. Be sure to apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with a sun protection factor of 30 or more to prevent sunburns and skin damage.

Food is often a big part of attending a summer event. Whether you are packing a picnic, grilling up some burgers, or enjoying the festival fare, be sure to wash your hands before handling or eating food.

Keep raw foods separate from cooked, and only use or drink water from a potable source.

Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Don’t wait until you feel thirsty, as this is a sign that your body is already becoming dehydrated.

Some people may choose to consume alcohol or cannabis. The safest option is to not use either of these substances. But if you decide to partake, you can reduce the risk of potential harm by using these substances in moderation and understanding their health and safety risks.

If you do use alcohol or cannabis, have a plan to get home safely by using a designated driver, calling a taxi, or using a ride-share service to protect yourself and others on the road. Never drive when you are impaired, and do not allow your family members or friends to drive while impaired.

At large gatherings, it is important to watch for signs of an opioid overdose. This could include a person who is not moving, has slow or no breathing, is making gurgling sounds or snoring, has blue or purple lips and nails, or has cold and clammy skin.

If you think someone is having an overdose, call 911 immediately, give the person Naloxone if available, and stay with the person until the ambulance arrives.

For more information on how to safely attend summer festivals and events, visit the SMDHU website.

Readers Comments (0)