Protecting yourself in the hot summer weather

We English are obsessed with the weather. It is always either too hot or too cold, too dry or too wet, too sunny or too cloudy. This phenomenon and the need to constantly discuss the weather is a peculiar English trait.

So it is the middle of June, almost our British Summer, and the weather is decidedly changeable. Today in my neck of the woods it has been cool, windy and grey. However tomorrow could be boiling hot and very sunny. Who knows? Not the weather forecasters that's for sure.

One thing for certain is that we have some lovely, sunny, hot days to look forward to. Well at least a few days. When the weather is often so bad it is very tempting to go over the top and lounge about too long in the hot sun once it shows its face, With this in mind this hub will offer some sound, sensible advice which may prevent you coming to harm in those lazy, hazy, crazy days of Summer that lie ahead.

Firstly I have to admit that I love sunbathing. I also must confess that I do this far too often. However you have to bear in mind that I am 57. My skin is way past its best and so is the rest of me. However I do know that I still need to take care.

Many of us will religiously apply suncream when we are on holiday abroad but forget when we are at home. So here are a few suggestions for how to look after yourself during Summer and a few facts:-

• There are far more accidents in Summer. Good weather sees children out and about climbing trees, swimming in unsafe ponds and more. The Accident and Emergency Department of my local hospital is far busier in Summer than Winter. There are more fractured bones in summer compared to those sustained from falling on ice in winter.
• This leads me to the first piece of advice. Think about what you are doing. Hot and sunny weather can do strange things to your common sense. Obey any notices such as "No Swimming here". Do not wander into unsafe areas off the beaten track, especially if you are alone. Diving from seaside piers into the sea is not only foolish but dangerous. Overall do not let the sun go to your head. Use your common sense and behave as you normally would by not compromising your safety.
• Apply a high factor sun cream or sun screen to avoid long term skin damage. If you will be swimming make sure that the cream is waterproof.
• Be careful what you eat and where you eat it. Avoid dirty looking cafes, eating undercooked food or food that has been insufficiently reheated.
• It will be better to take some fruit with you. This can provide quick nourishment until you reach a suitable place to eat.
• If you pack up a picnic ensure that you have not packed food that will deteriorate in the heat of the day.
• Be extra careful about what you eat and drink at barbecues. Drinks could be spiked. Barbecue meat is often undercooked or prepared in an unhygienic way.
• Reapply your sun cream or sun screen frequently.
• Carry Noxzema with you for some instant relief, for any sunburn that you may suffer.
• Do not fall asleep in the sun, especially if you are alone.
• Do not go bombing about on bicycles and motor bikes in shorts and T Shirts. Wear the proper protective clothing. You may be glad that you did in the long run.
• Do not swim in swimming pools that look unclean, smell foul or have debris in them.
• Take at least one bottle of water with you. You can re-fill this when you are able to.
• Wear good quality sun glasses or sun shades which will offer your eyes some protection from the sun. Avoid wearing ones that may look the biz but are basically useless.
• Wear a hat or at least carry one for use when needed. Sun stroke is more likely if you are out in the sun all day without any shade.
• If you prefer take a chic parasol with you instead.
• If you are going on a day trip take a few basic first aid items with you. These could be elastoplasts or band aids, insect repellent , anti-histaminnes, headache pills and insect bite relief. You may end up glad that you have packed these items.
• A loose shirt or blouse for a quick cover up. Tender areas such as a person's shoulders can soon burn in the sun. A thin top can also offer some warmth if the weather turns chilly.
• A mobile or cell phone is a must these days. This means that you can contact anyone at anytime. Mobile or cells phones can be lifesavers.

IN A HEATWAVE

This, the last week of June 2009, has seen warnings for the UK regarding heatwave conditions. The powers that be must expect that it is going to be very hot for them to take such unusual steps. In a heatwave it is more important than ever to look after yourself. Remember:-

• Drink plenty of long cool drinks. Avoid alcohol though as it will just dehydrate you.
• Carry a small pocket fan in order to get a welcome breeze now and then.
• These days you can buy sprays that people claim will cool you down. Check these out. Keep as cool as possible.
• Cover up with light clothing whenever possible.
• Avoid over exposure from the sun.
• Keep the shades or blinds drawn during the heat of the day.
• Spray thin cotton sheets with a mist of cool water in order to keep cool enough to get some sleep. Keep an appropriate spray in the bedroom to top this up when necessary.
• Remember that most animals will struggle in a heatwave. Have long haired dog's coats trimmed short and pretty.
• Do not exercise an animal in the heat of the day. It is better to wait until it is a little cooler to exercise them. Carry a cheap spray bottle full of cool water when you walk dogs, for example, in order to spray mist them occasionally and help keep them cool. You can spray yourself also if necessary. Consider buying a special dog cooling coat.
• DO NOT leave dogs locked in cars on hot days. If you must leave your dog in a car make sure that the windows are shaded, there is some air and that the dog has a supply of water. There are special water bottles that you can buy which will be suitable.
• Similarly DO NOT leave a dog locked outside all day in your garden. In a heatwave an animal will struggle to survive.
• Elderly people, young children and those with heart conditions may find it hard to cope in a heatwave. Act sensibly and follow official advice.
• Eat light meals which are easy to digest. Take extra care preparing and cooking food so as to avoid upset tummies from food that is starting to go off. Obey, Use By Dates on food.