By Grace Braswell
Daily News

As temperatures outside rise, so do the numbers of heat related injuries. Experts shared tips and tricks to stay safe from the summer sun in order to avoid physical harm due to heat exposure.

Hayla Folden, a member of the District 4 Public Health, said it is very important to stay safe from the sun to avoid skin cancer and heat stroke. People who work outside should be especially careful and drink plenty of water while being outside. 

“Hotter temperatures usually mean being outside more often,” Folden said. “There are pool parties, family reunions, Fourth of July celebrations. It is important to make sure to take precautions by staying in the shade, staying hydrated and applying sunscreen.”

Folden said keeping meat in coolers and not out — where it can spoil — is very important, along with putting up leftovers immediately, if outside. Food that needs to be refrigerated should not be sitting out in the sun, since improper food storage can lead to foodborne pathogens and sickness. 

Pools and lakes are another way germs and bacteria spread. According to Folden, it is very important not to swallow pool or lake water to avoid the spread of unwanted bacteria. It is also important to take kids on bathroom breaks and to check diapers every hour. 

Heat strokes are very common during the summer. Signs of a heatstroke include a throbbing headache, dizziness and light-headedness, lack of sweating despite the heat, muscle weakness, nausea, rapid heartbeat or rapid, shallow breathing. 

“If it is suspected that someone is having a heat stroke, call 911 immediately,” Folden said. “It could be fatal. While waiting for paramedics to arrive, initiate first aid. Move the victim to a shady area or an air-conditioned environment.”