The following tips are from Jana L. Davidson, education content specialist for the Progressive Agriculture Foundation.
In its latest safety message, the Progressive Agriculture Foundation is urging people to soak up summer safely with five safety tips, including protecting against UV rays.
- Have Fun in the Sun: While enjoying outdoor activities, always safeguard your skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation emitted by the sun. Remember the five S’s — Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek and Slide:
- Slip on clothing that protects your skin from the harmful UV rays.
- Slop on sunscreen of at least 15 SPF and broad-spectrum protect over exposed skin.
- Slap on a wide-brimmed hat that covers your face, ears and neck.
- Seek shade and limit sun exposure from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. when the UV rays are the strongest.
- Slide on sunglasses to protect the eyes, and opt for a wrap-around style with 99 or higher UV block.
- Make a Big Splash: Obey all instructions posted on signs or from lifeguards. Always remember to:
- Never swim alone – always have a buddy – with younger children being supervised by an adult.
- Wear your personal flotation device in or around water, and especially when boating.
- Enjoy Picnics: During picnics and gatherings, be sure to practice food safety and use the 2-2-4 rule:
- Don’t let hot or cold foods sit in room temperature longer than 2 hours.
- Store leftovers in containers that are no deeper than 2-inches to allow hot food to cool quickly and evenly.
- Be sure to dispose of any refrigerated leftovers after 4 days.
- Celebrate Summer with a Bang: The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public firework show put on by professionals. If you do use legal grade fireworks at your home, follow these tips:
- Never allow young children to play with fireworks.
- Keep a supply of water close as a precaution.
- Light only one firework at a time – never attempting to relight one that did note fully ignite.
- Never throw or point a firework toward people, animals, vehicles, structures, or flammable materials.
- Don’t Spread Germs: COVID-19 precautions include avoiding large crowds, practicing social distancing and thoroughly washing hands.
