Avoid Summer Ailments
Bug bites and stings, ouchies and even rashes caused by pesky plants can plague your summer if you aren�t careful. Take the following precautions and enjoy your summer!
Bug Bites and Stings
You might have read that people with a certain blood type or who sweat a lot are more prone to bug bites and stings than other people. No matter the cause, these bites can really ruin a great day of outdoor fun.
The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention recommend using an insect repellant with =20 percent DEET on exposed skin(anything over 50 percent is not shown to be anymore effective than below 50 percent). Once inside for the day, shower to remove the DEET from your skin.
Cover your legs and arms with light colored, lightweight clothing.
Avoid eating sweet, sugary foods when outside.
Keep a bug bite relief spray or gel nearby to lessen the redness and urge to scratch it. You can also apply a cool compress or ice pack to reduce swelling and help numb the bite or sting.
Ouchies
Minor injuries like skinned knees and elbows are commonplace in the summer. Avoiding them altogether can be difficult to do, but you can reduce your chances of getting ouchies by:
Always obey posted signs around waterways and pool decks � �NO RUNNING!�
When riding a bike, wear a helmet, kneepads and elbow pads.
When playing outdoors, always wear sturdy shoes, not flip flops or slide on shoes that can fall off.
Keep a first aid kit with you that includes clean wipes, antiseptic spray or ointment and clean bandages.
Rashes
Poison ivy and oak are in full bloom during the summer, easily disguising themselves amidst tree leaves, flowers and shrubs.
Be sure you know what the leaves look like.
If walking in the woods, stick to the trail/path and don�t touch any of the plants. Wear long sleeves and pants.