Top tips for staying safe in summer

Summer is a season of warmth, sunshine, and outdoor fun. But with the heat comes the need to stay vigilant about your health and safety. At Culligan, we believe that staying hydrated and cool is essential to enjoying the summer months to the fullest.

Here are our top tips for staying safe this summer:

1. Stay Hydrated

Hydration is key to staying healthy in the summer heat. Your body needs more water when the temperatures rise, so make sure to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. Here’s how you can ensure you stay hydrated:

Drink Water Regularly: Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink water. Make it a habit to sip water frequently, especially if you’re outside.
Use a Water Dispenser: Having a water dispenser makes it easy to access fresh, cold water anytime. It’s a simple yet effective way to encourage everyone to drink more water.
Infuse Your Water: Add a burst of flavour to your water with natural ingredients like lemon, cucumber, or mint. This not only enhances the taste but also makes drinking water more enjoyable.

2. Protect Your Skin

The sun’s rays can be harmful, causing sunburns and increasing the risk of skin cancer. Protecting your skin is crucial when spending time outdoors:

Apply Sun Cream: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Apply it generously 15 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating.
Wear Protective Clothing: Long-sleeved shirts, hats, and sunglasses can provide additional protection against the sun’s harmful UV rays. Look for clothing with built-in UV protection for added safety.
Seek Shade: When the sun is at its strongest, usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., try to stay in the shade as much as possible. This will help prevent sunburn and overheating.

3. Be Aware of Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion can occur when your body overheats. It’s essential to recognize the symptoms and take action promptly:

Know the Signs: Symptoms of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and headache. If you or someone else experiences these symptoms, it’s important to cool down immediately.
Cool Down Quickly: Move to a cooler place, drink water, and use a wet cloth to help lower your body temperature. If symptoms persist, seek medical attention.
Take Breaks: If you’re engaging in strenuous activities outdoors, take frequent breaks in a cool or shaded area. This can help prevent your body from overheating.

4. Eat Light and Fresh

What you eat can also affect how you feel in the summer heat. Opt for light, fresh meals that are easy to digest and help keep you cool:

Choose Fresh Fruits and Vegetables: Foods with high water content, like watermelon, cucumber, and strawberries, can help keep you hydrated and refreshed.
Avoid Heavy Meals: Large, heavy meals can increase your body temperature and make you feel sluggish. Instead, opt for smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day.
Stay Cool with Snacks: Frozen treats like popsicles, frozen yogurt, and smoothies can provide a refreshing break from the heat while also helping to keep you hydrated.

5. Stay Informed

Being aware of the weather and staying informed can help you plan your activities and stay safe:

Check Weather Reports: Keep an eye on the weather forecast, especially when planning outdoor activities. Be prepared for sudden changes in weather conditions.
Use Weather Apps: Weather apps can provide real-time updates and alerts, helping you avoid extreme heat or sudden storms.
Plan Indoor Activities: On extremely hot days, consider planning indoor activities to stay cool and avoid the risk of heat-related illnesses.

At Culligan, we’re committed to helping you access safe, great tasting water. Stay hydrated this summer with our Mains Fed Water Coolers and Bottled Water Coolers