ROME, Ga., JUNE 15, 2023 – If you are headed to the beach or pool this summer, Dr. Michael Land at Atrium Health Floyd Primary Care Family Medicine in Adairsville offers health and safety recommendations to help the whole family enjoy fun in the sun.
What to pack:
Start by filling your beach bag with these essentials:
- Water
- Snacks
- Sunscreen (choose a broad-spectrum option with at least SPF 30)
- Flip-flops or sandals
- Wide-brimmed hats (baseball caps do not provide adequate sun protection)
- Sunglasses with at least 99% UV protection
- Hand wipes to clean off sand before eating
- A small first aid kit for minor cuts and scrapes
- An umbrella for shade
- Flotation devices, like a life jacket or puddle jumper, for little ones playing near the water who cannot swim
- A whistle to call for help if needed
Sun safety tips:
Sunscreen is a must for every family member anytime you go outside, especially for beach and pool days. Land recommends applying broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with at least SPF 30 before going to the beach or pool. Reapply sunscreen every two hours and after swimming, sweating or toweling off.
Babies under 6 months should not wear sunscreen, as they are more susceptible to side effects, like rashes.
“Instead, protect your baby's skin with a hat and sun-protective clothing and keep them in the shade," Land says. “It's also important to try to avoid the beach during the hottest part of the day: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m."
Swimming safety:
- Swim near a lifeguard.
- Children should never get in the water without an adult present.
- Never dive headfirst into the water without knowing the depth of the water.
- Avoid swimming in water when there are rip current advisories.
If you get caught in a rip current, remain calm and do not try to fight against it. Float, wave and yell to get attention, or swim parallel to the shore (if you're a good swimmer). If you see someone in a rip current, find a lifeguard for help, throw them a flotation device or offer them a reaching object. Never attempt to make the rescue on your own.
Monitor the weather and stay out of the water if lightning is in the area or if you hear thunder.
“If a child cannot swim, they should wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved floatation device when playing around the water," says Land.
Preventing dehydration and heat illness:
Adults and children can become overheated in the summer. Here are some ways to stay safe in high temperatures:
- Remain well-hydrated and drink plenty of water. Avoid sugary beverages.
- Take breaks and rest indoors or in the shade.
- Keep your visit short if the outside temperature is greater than 90 degrees.
- Dress in loose-fitting, light-colored clothing.
The following can be signs of getting overheated:
- Extreme fatigue or unusual sleepiness
- Faintness
- Fever
- Headache
- Not urinating for several hours
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Intense thirst
- Muscles aches or spasms
- Skin tingling or numbness
- Shortness of breath
“Following these tips can help you have both a safe and fun day in the sun," said Land. “A few simple precautions can keep everyone healthy and happy."