Prepare for a Safe Summer with St. Joseph’s/Candler Urgent Care

Summer is finally here, and that means lots of outdoor activities and fun family trips. But it also means it’s time to prepare for potential seasonal hazards before they put a damper on your fun. Whether it be for a super-hot day, or bug bites and stings, it’s good to be prepared. That’s why St. Joseph’s/Candler Urgent Care is here with our helpful Summer Safety Tips to make sure you can keep your days sunny!

Take high temperature precautions

One unpleasant side effect of summer is the high temperatures, which can be especially challenging in warmer areas with high humidity. To prevent heat stroke for you or your family, ensure everyone drinks plenty of water, wears lightweight and light-colored clothing, and takes breaks indoors or in shaded areas. Additionally, avoid strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day, and use fans or air conditioning to stay cool. If you suspect someone may be experiencing heat stroke, seek emergency care immediately or call 911.

Wear sun protection

If you love spending time outdoors, protecting your skin from the sun is crucial. Extended exposure to the sun increases the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage, including premature aging and skin cancer. To safeguard yourself, always wear sunscreen with a high SPF, reapplying it every two hours or after swimming or sweating. Additionally, wear a sunhat and lightweight, long-sleeved clothing to shield your skin. These measures not only prevent painful sunburns but also protect your overall skin health, ensuring you don’t end up feeling like a burger on a grill.

Refresh your first aid kit

Having a first aid kit in your home or car is a great way to make sure that you’re on top of any unexpected illnesses or injuries that may occur. However, if you find yourself using it regularly, the contents of the kit may need to be replaced. It’s a good idea to check your first aid kits seasonally to make sure you’re not low on anything or need to replace expired medications. However, if you do find yourself needing non-emergency medical attention that can’t quite be handled with a first aid quit, our medical professionals at St. Joseph’s/Candler Urgent Care have got you covered!

Summer injury prevention

Summer is a prime time for outdoor sports and activities, which also means a higher chance of injuries. Whether it’s a sprained ankle from a soccer game or a cut from a bike fall, it’s important to be proactive about safety.

  • Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can lead to dizziness and increased risk of injury. Make sure everyone drinks plenty of water before, during, and after activities.
  • Use Protective Gear: Always wear the appropriate protective gear for the sport or activity. This includes helmets for biking, life jackets for water activities, and knee pads for skateboarding.
  • Warm Up and Stretch: Encourage everyone to warm up and stretch before engaging in any strenuous activities. This helps prevent muscle strains and sprains.
  • Follow Safety Rules: Make sure to follow all safety rules for the activity. Whether it’s the rules of the sport or guidelines for a safe swimming area, adhering to these can prevent accidents.
  • Supervise Children: Keep an eye on kids, especially near water. Ensure they are playing in a safe area and are supervised at all times.

Additionally, if you or your child is gearing up for a sports season, it’s important to ensure they are in good health. At St. Joseph’s/Candler Urgent Care, we offer sports physicals to check for any potential health issues that could affect performance or lead to injuries. Our thorough preparticipation physical evaluation will provide peace of mind and help keep everyone safe and healthy during their summer activities.

Walk-in clinic, when you need it most!

No matter what the season is, St. Joseph’s/CandlerUrgent Care is here to offer you the care you need, when you need it. If you have a non-emergency medical issue that you want treated, our expert team members can help. This includes sprains and strains, cuts and bruises, mild illnesses such as coughs, colds, and more. We also see patients as young as three months. To learn more about us, or to check-in online before your arrival, visit our website.