Summer is heating up

With warmer temperatures finally here, Fraser Health, Provincial Health Services Authority and Vancouver Coastal Health want to ensure you have a healthy summer by offering the following safety tips. Stay cool

• Avoid strenuous activities when the sun is at its hottest, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Drink plenty of water or other cool, non-alcoholic, decaffeinated drinks to prevent dehydration.
• Find a shady spot or a cool or air-conditioned place to relax on warm days.
• On warm days, never leave your children or pets in parked vehicles. Also, check in on elderly neighbours and family members living alone as they are one of the highest risk groups for heat-related illnesses.
• Recognize the signs of heat-related illnesses: excess or the absence of perspiration, headache, dizziness and nausea, changes in mental status and laboured breathing.
  

• Any time you are outdoors in the sun, remember to slop on the sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher. Apply 30 minutes before going outdoors and reapply often, especially after perspiring or going in the water.

• Even in overcast conditions, you can get a sunburn. Up to 80 per cent of the sun’s rays can penetrate light clouds, mist and fog, and up to 85 per cent can be reflected back from surfaces such as water, concrete and sand. 
• Wear a hat with a brim, light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing and 100 per cent UV blocking sunglasses. 

Eat safe

• Keep cold refrigerated foods like luncheon meats, pasta salads or other perishable foods in an insulated cooler packed with lots of ice or several ice packs.

• When grilling foods, cook to proper temperatures. When in doubt, use a probe thermometer to ensure that all meat and poultry have reached a safe internal temperature (at least 71° C or 160° F) to kill harmful bacteria that cause food borne illnesses.
• Store leftovers in separate, shallow, covered containers in the refrigerator and eat within two days.
• Clean and sanitize all surfaces, and cooking and eating utensils, especially after coming in contact with raw meat. 

Play safe

• When biking, hiking or just playing outdoors, make sure you bring enough water and easy-to-carry snacks that will provide plenty of energy and rehydration.

• Always wear a helmet and other protective equipment when biking, skateboarding or rollerblading and ensure good fit and proper use of gear. Wear life jackets while boating. 
• When participating in an outdoor activity at dusk or after dark, wear lightly coloured, reflective clothing so you are visible to others. If cycling, use front and rear lights on bikes. Avoid alcohol-related injuries. Do not drive boats or vehicles or engage in recreational activities while under the influence of alcohol. Plan for a safe ride home before going out.

For health related questions or concerns, call HealthLink BC at 8-1-1 or visit www.healthlinkbc.ca, 24 hours a day/seven days a week.

Media contact

Vancouver Coastal Health
Anna Marie D'Angelo
Phone: 604-708-5340
Cell: 604-790-4763