Outdoor Safety
Precautions for the Summer
Stay safe when recreating or working outdoors during the summer months. Taking precautions against exposure to sun, heat and bug bites during this season is essential in supporting health and comfort.
Sun
To protect against the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays:
- Cover up. Wear lightweight, tightly woven clothing that you can’t see through and will shield your skin from the sun.
- Use sunscreen. A sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 blocks 93% of UV rays. Be sure to follow application directions.
- Wear a hat. It should protect your neck, ears, forehead, nose, and scalp.
- Wear UV-absorbent shades. Sunglasses should block 99 to 100% of UVA and UVB radiation. Before you buy, read the product label.
Heat
The combination of heat and humidity can be a serious health threat during the summer months. To beat the heat:
- Drink plenty of water, even before you get thirsty.
- Wear light, loose-fitting, breathable clothing such as dry-fit material.
- Eat smaller meals before a physical activity.
- Skip the caffeine and soda; drink water instead.
- Be aware that some equipment such as respirators or work suits can increase heat stress.
Ticks
If you’re working in or exploring tall grass or wooded areas, take the following precautions to protect yourself from ticks:
- Wear light-colored clothing to see ticks more easily.
- Wear long sleeves and long pants.
- Tuck pant legs into socks or boots.
- Wear high boots or shoes that cover your feet completely.
- Wear a hat.
- Use tick repellents – but not on your face.
- Wash and dry your outdoor clothes at high temperatures.
- Examine your body for ticks after being in an area with possible ticks.
- Remove any attached ticks promptly. In some regions, ticks may transmit Lyme disease. If you get bit and develop a rash, see your doctor.
Insect Bites & Stings
Bee, wasp, hornet, and yellow jacket stings are typically only dangerous to those who are allergic or have been stung multiple times. Minimize risk of bites and stings from insects by:
- Wear bug repellent and use insect nets when possible.
- Avoid wearing heavy perfumes or scented lotions.
- Check before drinking from cups, bottles, or cans.
- Many stinging insects are attracted to sweet drinks.
- Shake out boots, shoes, or other clothing that has been left out or unattended before putting it on.
Staying Safe & Healthy
in the Outdoors
Spending time in nature is not only enjoyable, but it also has numerous health benefits. It can help lower stress, reduce the risk of heart disease, improve sleep quality, and even lower the risk of cancer. Additionally, being out in nature can improve our mental health by reducing the risk of depression, increasing focus and attention, and helping us form better social connections. It’s important to spend time in nature with friends or family, or even by ourselves, to support both our physical and mental well-being.
Urban green spaces, such as parks and gardens, offer a convenient way for individuals living in urban areas to reap the benefits of nature without having to travel far. Whether it is a quick walk through a local park or a leisurely picnic with friends, urban green spaces provide an opportunity to connect with nature and improve overall well-being. Here are some quick tips to keep you safe while spending time outdoors:
- Dress appropriately for the conditions and season. Whether you’re going on a camping trip or a quick walk in the park, make sure you wear appropriate clothing, like socks, shoes, wicking clothing, or layers.
- Always carry appropriate safety gear. You may consider bringing a simple safety bag with you wherever you go. You can find lots of ideas for these online.
- Learn basic first aid. In case of an emergency, it is important to know basic first aid to treat things like blisters, cuts, sprains, and dehydration.
- Share your itinerary. Drop your location pin to a friend or text someone the name of the trail, route, or park that you’ll be in.
- Be realistic. Don’t push yourself over your limits. Challenging yourself can be fulfilling but remember to stay safe and within your personal limits.
World, T. B. W. (2022, May 7). 20 tips to stay safe in the outdoors. Outdoor Adventure Travel Guides & Tips | This Big Wild World. Retrieved March 7, 2023, from https://bit.ly/424cx9o
The wellness benefits of the Great Outdoors. US Forest Service. (n.d.). Retrieved January 10, 2023, from https://bit.ly/412C8OP
– Mental Health Moment –
Nature & Mental Health
Spending time in green spaces or simply bringing nature into your everyday life can benefit both your mental and physical well-being. Doing activities like exercising outdoors, camping, growing flowers, and other plants, or being around animals can have a lot of positive effects on your mental health, including:
- Improved mood
- Reducing stress or anger
- Elevated confidence
- Improved self-esteem
- Developing active habits
- Making new social connections
- Providing peer support
- Reducing loneliness
Certain mental health conditions, like anxiety and depression, have been shown to be helped by spending time outdoors. One example of this is ecotherapy, which is a type of formal treatment that involves doing activities in nature, and it has been shown to help with mild to moderate depression.
Natural light can also help if you experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which is a type of depression that affects people during certain times or seasons of the year. Those who spend more time in natural light during these times report better mental health afterward.
Here are some ideas for outdoor-related activities to try to better your mental health:
- Create a growing space for small plants or herbs. You could do this by yourself or with others.
- Arrange a comfortable space to sit, like a window where you can look at trees or the sky.
- Take a walk in a local park or walking trail.
- Eat meals and socialize outdoors.
- Exercise outdoors. Consider changing your treadmill run for one in a local park.
- Volunteer for a conservation project such as planting trees or building a community garden.
How nature benefits mental health. Mind. (n.d.). Retrieved March 7, 2023, from https://bit.ly/3VwymvN
