EDITORIAL: Summer sun can be no fun

June 10--While many view the Memorial Day holiday as the start of summer, the official date isn't until June 21.

However, that doesn't mean children and those working in the heat will wait another week and a half to officially kick off summer.

Many people work outside all year round. Children are out of school and playing outside, going to the pool or playing on sports teams with their friends.

Here are some tips from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to help prepare for the summer heat and have fun in the sun.

--Drink plenty of water or other non-alcoholic beverages.

--Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that is light in color.

--Reduce strenuous activities or do them during the cooler parts of the day.

--Seek shade, especially during midday hours of 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

--Cover up with clothing to protect exposed skin. A long-sleeved shirt and long pants with a tight weave are best.

--Wear a hat with a wide brim to shade the face, head, ears, and neck.

--Grab shades that wrap around and block as close to 100% of both UVA and UVB rays as possible.

--Rub on sunscreen with sun protective factor (SPF) 15 or higher, and both UVA and UVB protection.

--Shower before swimming and wash your hands after using the toilet or changing diapers.

--Take children on bathroom breaks or check diapers often.

--Keep an eye on children at all times. Kids can drown in seconds and in silence.

--Never swim alone or in unsupervised locations.

Remembering the heat can quickly turn a beautiful, fun-filled day into a tragic one, if the proper safety is not the first priority.

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