Summer! While we are all enjoying having a great time outdoors with family and friends, it is important to remain safe while doing so. We were honored to be voted best Urgent Care in Fairfield in the TownVibes Fairfield Magazine’s Readers Choice Awards for 2019-2020, and as a thank you, we would like to share a few tips to stay safe in the summertime. Although we love having you, here is how you can ensure a trip outdoors does not turn into a trip to urgent care.
Sun Protection
Just a few serious sunburns can increase the chances of getting skin cancer later in life. Always apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before heading outdoors. Wear protective clothing and hats with wide brims.
Bug Safety
Diseases like Zika, West Nile virus, and Lyme disease can be transmitted by mosquitoes and ticks. Use an effective insect repellent when spending time outdoors. Always check yourself, your family, and your pets for ticks.
Prevent Injuries
Always make sure to wear helmets whenever riding a bicycle, scooter, or roller skates. A helmet is the most important device available that can reduce head injury and death from a crash.
Water Safety
Never leave a child unattended at the pool or beach. If you have a pool at home, make sure it is fenced in and use doors with locks to keep kids out when adults are not present. Keep rescue equipment, like life preservers, life jackets, and a long pole with a “shepherd’s hook” at the end, close at hand. When swimming at the beach, be sure to stay in the swimming areas and make sure there is a lifeguard, especially where there are children.
Beat the Heat
Never leave a child or pet enclosed in a vehicle on a hot day. Make sure to fill up on water regularly to remain hydrated and avoid sugary or alcoholic beverages that may dehydrate you. Avoid strenuous exercise on particularly hot days. Stay cool with cool showers or baths. Wear lightweight, loosely fitted, light-colored clothing.
Keep Food Safe
Remember to wash your hands before preparing or serving any food. Cook meat thoroughly and separate cooked meat from raw meat to prevent food poisoning. Keep food stored in a cool and dry place. Always wash fruits and vegetables. Keep all perishable foods in a refrigerator or cooler with a cold pack.
Tick Safety
Don’t worry, preventing tick bites is not as hard as it may seem. Using insect repellents for protection, checking your skin and clothes for any ticks, being aware of the symptoms of a tick bite, and more can help prevent tick bites during the seasons they are active. Some things even as simple as showering every day, checking your hair, underarms, and groin can make sure no harm comes from those pesky ticks. If, by any chance, you see them on your clothes or skin, pull the tick’s body away with a tweezer in a steady motion. Wash and dry clothes in a hot dryer to kill any ticks present. Now you may be asking, “How do I know if I have a tick-related illness?” The most common symptoms of tick-related illness are:
- Fever/chills
- Muscle aches
- Joint pain
- Stiff neck
- Facial paralysis
- Various forms of rashes such as Lyme disease, southern tick-associated rash illness (STARI), Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF), ehrlichiosis, and tularemia. A symptom to keep an eye out for soon after a bite is any unusual red, pink or purple spots near the part of the body that may have been bitten.
Sharing great summer experiences with your family and friends can create wonderful memories that last a lifetime. And just in case the planned activities don’t go as smoothly as expected, come into AFC, and we’ll get you all taken care of.
With locations in Bridgeport, Fairfield, and Shelton, AFC is always there for you and your families’ healthcare needs. To learn more about our services or to contact the nearest AFC Urgent Care, visit our website.
