Summer has finally arrived! There’s no more beautiful time to be in our province, and it’s time to get outside and make the most of the long hours of daylight, warm weather, and our wonderful beaches, hiking trails and camping spots. Before you head out on your adventures, though, make sure that you have everything you need to stay safe and healthy. Here are our top five tips for summer fun.

Sun savvy
Whether you’re lounging at the shore or cutting the lawn, a few simple precautions will help you stay sun safe. Always be sure that you’re wearing a hat and sun protective clothing, and, of course, don’t forget the sunscreen! Use the highest SPF available, re-apply every 2 hours, and don’t forget those tender bits, like the tops of your ears and the backs of your hands. People with darker skin have additional considerations.

Beach, please
There’s not much better than a beach day! Think ahead to ensure that fun and safety go hand in hand when you’re packing for the day at the shore. Kids should wear bright swimsuits – no pastels or blues that might blend in with the sand or surf. Ensure that you’ve got PFDs for small kids or anyone who hasn’t passed their swimming lessons yet. Keep an eye on weather conditions and make sure you know where the lifeguards are. Ensure you’ve got plenty of fresh water so that everyone can stay hydrated, and pack a tent or an umbrella so that shade is available, especially if you have very little children with you – they overheat quickly.

Bug out
Between black flies, mosquitoes and ticks, Nova Scotia has no shortage of insects who want to get a bite of the summer fun. As usual, a layered approach is best. The right gear can help (a hat and netting for black flies and mosquitos, protective clothing for ticks) and so can bug repellent – think carefully to ensure you’re choosing one that’s right for your family members. And, of course, always do a tick check when you get home.

You are what you eat
Summer time is the best time for road trips, picnics, campfires and barbecues, and keeping summer food safety in mind is key to ensure that none of your guests take home an unwelcome party souvenir. Highlights include using separate insulated bags or coolers to keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold; keeping food covered to prevent flies from spreading germs; and making sure that you understand how to operate any camp stove or barbecue before you get started. Always check burning restrictions to help prevent forest fires.

Stick to the basics
Basic health and safety rules apply no matter the time of year, and sticking to them can help ensure that your summer is full of fun – not emergency department visits. Ensure that you’re up-to-date on your vaccinations (especially measles), wash your hands routinely, wear a mask in crowded places if you’re sick or if you’re immune-compromised, and keep a fully stocked first aid kit at home and in the car.

WANT MORE INFORMATION ON HEALTHY LIVING AND HEALTH-CARE DELIVERY SENT DIRECTLY TO YOUR INBOX? SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER TO GET ALL OF OUR CONTENT FIRST!