Independence Day Tips

Independence Day is almost here, which means many communities are preparing for a long weekend of outdoor activities, cookouts, and fireworks to celebrate. Health and safety are especially important in maximizing holiday fun, so check out these tips to include in your Fourth of July planning! Wear sunglasses outdoors – sunglasses are a great fashion accessory, but their most important job is to protect your eyes from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. Learn more from the National Eye Institute (NEI) on keeping your eyes healthy. Use sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher – avoid a sunburn while still getting that all-important vitamin D! Do you know the meaning of sun protection factor (SPF)? Read Sun and Skin: The Dark Side of Sun Exposure from NIH News in Health to find out! Stay hydrated – your body needs more water when it’s hot outside, and when you are physically active. Take frequent drink breaks and watch out for signs of dehydration. Keep food out of the Danger Zone – The Danger Zone is the temperature range between 40 °F and 140 °F in which foodborne bacteria can grow rapidly to dangerous levels that can cause illness. Leaving perishables out too long in the Danger Zone is one of the most common mistakes people make, especially during warmer months. View fireworks from at least 500 feet away – If not handled properly, fireworks can cause burn and eye injuries. Respect safety barriers at fireworks shows and never let children p...
Source: NN/LM Middle Atlantic Region Blog - Category: Databases & Libraries Authors: Tags: Consumer Health K-12 Source Type: news