As you get ready for Memorial Day weekend, don’t forget to make safety a priority!
With warmer weather and an extra day off, many people begin their summer activities of camping, barbecues, swimming, and other outdoor fun this weekend. While it’s a great time to enjoy the season, these activities can also bring some dangers. Here are some tips to keep you and your loved ones safe and healthy this Memorial Day weekend.
Wear Sunscreen
If you’re taking the festivities outdoors, apply sunscreen at least 15 minutes before heading out so it can fully absorb into your skin. Even on cloudy days, UV rays can be damaging. Choose sunscreen that is at least 30 SPF, protects against UVA and UVB, and is water-resistant. You should reapply sunscreen every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
Stay Hydrated
Warm weather and outdoor activities can increase your risk of dehydration. Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Keep in mind that alcohol and caffeine can contribute to fluid loss, so balance those drinks with plenty of water.
Handle Food Properly
If you’re hosting or attending a cookout, be mindful of how food is handled. Typically perishable items, such as meat, eggs, dairy products, and chopped fruits and vegetables, should not be at room temperature for longer than 2 hours. Keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold to reduce the risk of foodborne illness.
Protect Against Bug Bites
Bugs like mosquitoes and ticks are more active in warmer months. Use an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellent to protect your skin from bug bites. In Washington state, insects like mosquitoes and ticks may carry diseases such as West Nile Virus or Lyme disease.
Additional tip: Apply sunscreen first, wait 15 minutes, and then apply insect repellent for best results.
Practice Fire Safety
Grilling and bonfires are great ways to celebrate, but they come with fire hazards. Always grill or start fires away from flammable materials, never leave them unattended, and keep a fire extinguisher nearby. Make sure fires are completely out before leaving the area.
Practice Water Safety
If you’re taking your Memorial Day activities to the lake, beach, or pool, make sure to practice water safety. Wear a life jacket when boating, avoid alcohol around water, and never swim alone. Supervision and preparation can help prevent accidents before they happen.
Urgent Care in Bellingham, WA
With these tips in mind, you can celebrate the long weekend and avoid it turning into a trip to urgent care. At Care Medical Group, we are closed on Memorial Day but operate our normal hours the following day for illnesses and injuries that aren’t emergent. Visit our clinic at 4043 Northwest Avenue, Bellingham, WA 98226 or give us a call at 360-734-4300 to schedule an appointment.