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June 30, 2010
VICTORIA – Summer is officially here, and the warmer weather means more time outside enjoying the sun, water and all the islands have to offer. With this in mind, Vancouver Island Health Authority would like to remind you about some important summer safety tips.
Sun Safety
Avoiding excessive sun exposure can not only prevent serious heat-related illness such as sun stroke and heat exhaustion, it can also prevent sun damage and burns. If you are going out in the sun, remember to:
- Schedule outdoor physical activities for when UV rays are at their weakest – before 10:00 a.m. and after 4:00 p.m.
- Generously apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 to all exposed skin.
- Wear UVA/UVB protective sunglasses to help prevent damage to your eyes.
- Protect yourself even in cloudy or overcast weather as the sun’s rays can penetrate through clouds.
- Drink plenty of fluids and avoid drinks that can lead to dehydration, such as alcohol and coffee.
Water Safety
On Vancouver Island, an average of 11 children and youth drown every five years. Many of these incidents occur in bathtubs or backyard pools. Parents can reduce the risk of losing their child by taking the following precautions:
- NEVER be more than an arm’s reach from a child in or close to water. A child can drown silently in seconds.
- Ensure all children under the age of three, as well as children who cannot swim, wear a life jacket or an approved personal flotation device whenever they are in or around water. However, these safety products do not substitute for adult supervision.
- Build a fence surrounding all pools, including inflatable pools, with a self-closing and self-latching gate. Fencing should enclose all four sides of the pool.
- Wading pools should be emptied when not in use.
- Remove and lock steps or ladders leading to above-ground pools when the pool is no longer in use.
- Review and follow all instructions for pool accessories, such as ladders, filters, and drains. These accessories pose entrapment and entanglement hazards, which may result in a person becoming trapped underwater.
For more health information on sun, water and many other summer topics, visit our website at: http://www.viha.ca/health_info/health_tips/
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Media Contact:
Shannon Marshall
VIHA Communications
250-370-8270 |
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