Summer is finally here, providing opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, gather with loved ones, get more physically active and perhaps travel. While the season generally offers more time to indulge in these pleasures, there are some things to keep in mind as temperatures increase. 

Keep baby cool

Most people are aware of the dangers of leaving a child in a car or participating in physical activities in the extreme heat. These are typical conditions that can increase the possibility of suffering from heat exhaustion or a heat stroke. However, getting heat exhaustion or a heat stroke is not limited to the outdoors. Both also can occur inside of a house. 

When putting a child down for a nap, ensure that there is adequate air conditioning or cool air circulating in the room. Babies and young children are not able to verbally communicate so you may not be able to identify the typical signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Be aware of some of the early symptoms including irritability, loss of appetite, increased thirst, or any change in behavior that is not baseline for the child.

Additionally, it’s important to recognize the differences between heat exhaustion and a heat stroke, though the two share similarities. 

With heat exhaustion, a child can experience fatigue, sweating and increased thirst, which can also be associated with heat stroke. Yet, there are even more physical symptoms present such as not being able to sweat, confusion and disorientation. Heat stroke is considered a serious emergency where medical attention should be sought. 

Water is vital

No surprises here — water is vital. Patients often tell me they drink water all of the time, but people tend to be more active during the summer months, so it’s important to increase water consumption. Hydration is key, and while there is an abundance of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages that may appear to be refreshing, water is one of the best sources of hydration. 

Also, while on the go this summer or when participating in strenuous activities, remember to take breaks. For example, if you are hiking, pause to stand or sit awhile, as resting allows your body to replenish itself. While you’re at it, drink some more water. Find a shaded spot if possible, rest and hydrate to help your body reset and help avoid suffering from heat exhaustion or a heat stroke.

Sunblock for all 

There is an assumption that people of color do not have to use sunblock, which is simply not true. Though it is not often socialized, people of color can indeed get sunburn and develop skin cancer. Black people and people of color have died from the disease. The well-known legendary, reggae musician, Bob Marley, sadly passed away from a form of skin cancer. Everyone should wear sunblock. 

So which sunblock is the best? I say, the right sunscreen is the kind you put on. 

If a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 is the only kind available, wear it. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends putting on a broad-spectrum sunscreen that has an SPF of 15 or higher before you go outside. 

For people of color who are hesitant to use sunblock because of the white residue it leaves behind, there are clear formulas available. Additionally, there are now sunscreens in the market that educate people of color about sun safety and address more specific needs.

Be present at the pool

Each year, according to the CDC, there are an estimated 3,960 fatal unintentional drownings, including boating-related drownings — an average of 11 drowning deaths per day. Children ages 1–4 have the highest drowning rates, and most drownings in children within this age range happen in swimming pools, says the CDC. It is considered a preventable death, yet can occur in an instant — that moment when you just turned your head for a split second. 

As a parent, try to ensure that you are present at the pool when your child is swimming. If you must step away, ask a trusted friend or family member to watch them, or take your child with you. 

Additionally, if your child cannot swim, avoid normalizing the use of floaties or “puddle jumpers” as this can create a false sense of security for a child: There is a risk of them jumping into a pool without them, thinking they can swim or float on their own. 

Even if your child can swim, watch as if they cannot.  

Consider getting vaccinated

The pandemic is endemic, yet COVID-19 is still here with us and will probably continue to be for awhile. The virus is something to think about this summer when engaging in activities and going to locations where you are unsure of everyone’s status. It is still highly contagious, and can be dangerous for those who are not vaccinated/boosted. You don’t know which strain you will get should you contract COVID-19 — it’s a gamble.

Due in part to the vaccine, we are in a much better place with the virus and the pandemic than we were two years ago. Symptoms of the virus can be milder and less severe when vaccinated. 

Additionally, now children six months and up are eligible to get the vaccine. Earlier on, we didn’t realize that COVID could affect the pediatric population. Now, we understand the impact, and with the vaccine there is an opportunity to help protect everyone in your family.  

As we chart forward enjoying all that the summer brings, continue to be mindful and aware of the safety and health of yourself and those around you — doing so could save a life.

Dr. Bayo Curry-Winchell, M.D., M.S., is a board-certified, practicing family physician based in Reno, where she serves as regional clinical director for Carbon Health and medical director for Saint Mary’s Medical Group. She also is a member of the mayor’s task force and the Governor’s Medical Advisory Team on COVID-19.