Here are just a few tips that will help you and your family enjoy vacations, backyard barbeques or trips to the lake this summer.

1. Stay cool. Wear lightweight, breathable, loose-fitting clothing to help you stay cool.
2. Wear sunscreen. Sunburn is painful and harmful to skin. Use a sunscreen that is right for your skin and apply at regular intervals during the day. Be sure to reapply after any physical or water activities.
3. Drink plenty of water. Drinking water is important year-round, but it is especially important during the summer months when heat can cause dehydration and heat stroke to occur at a faster rate. Take extra care with young children and the elderly who can become dehydrated more easily than adults.
4. Never leave children alone in a car.  On a typical summer day, the temperature inside a car can quickly rise above 120 to 140 degrees. At those temperatures, children are at great risk for heat stroke, which can lead to a high fever, dehydration, seizures, stroke and death.
5. Avoid insect bites. Before leaving on a camping or beach vacation, bring things that will prevent insects from biting and that will provide comfort for any insect bites you may get, such as insect repellent and calamine lotion. Remember to read the labels, follow all precautions and use as directed.
6. Wear sunglasses. Sunglasses protect your eyes from the sun's damaging UV rays.
7. Wear safety equipment. Summer is a great time to enjoy biking, skating skateboarding, boating, and waterskiing. When participating in any activity, make sure you are wearing appropriate safety gear, such as helmets and life jackets, to prevent injuries.
8. Keep food safe. Summer is the season for outdoor barbecues and picnics; however, food-related illness can put a damper on those outdoor parties. Cooking meat thoroughly, washing hands, surfaces and utensils, refrigerating leftovers and washing produce can help prevent many food borne illnesses.
9. Swim safely. Choose areas with lifeguards, use personal floatation devices, limit alcohol consumption, take swimming lessons and get CPR certified.
    
10. Know your body. If you are feeling ill, see a doctor.

Have a safe and enjoyable summer!