Summer Safety Tips

Summer is a time of fun and relaxation. But sometimes that enjoyment can turn into health problems or even tragedy. Before you head to the beach, pool or park, read these tips to help you and your family stay safe this summer.

Apply your sunscreen
It seems physicians and skin experts can’t say enough about sunscreen. The reason: Sunscreen is the most important way for people to avoid skin cancer.

“Basal cell skin cancer is directly related to sun exposure and skin damage,” warns Chris W. Edwardson, M.D., of West Valley Hospital. “Though it’s very rarely fatal, if it’s not treated it can spread to nearby organs. If that happens on the face, for example, a person could lose an eye, nose or ear.”

When you’re near the water, applying and reapplying sunscreen is critical, because the water reflects sunlight and increases your exposure.

Here are some tips for using sunscreen effectively:

• Use waterproof sunscreen of at least SPF 15 that protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
• Sunscreens that provide the greatest protection against UVA contain titanium dioxide, zinc oxide or avobenzone.
• Apply sunscreen 20 to 30 minutes before exposure and reapply it periodically, as the package directs.
• Sunscreen should not be used on infants younger than 6 months.

Watch for swimmer’s ear
Do your children spend most of their swimming time darting around under water? These young tadpoles could be at risk of developing “swimmer’s ear.”

“Swimmer’s ear is a bacterial infection of the external ear canal caused when a person gets water inside the ear and it doesn’t drain properly,” according to Dr. Edwardson. “The moisture breaks down the ear’s natural protection, making it vulnerable to bacteria or mold.”

During swimming season, if your child complains of any of the following, have him or her checked out by a doctor:

• Itching, pain, tenderness or swelling in the ear
• Fluid draining from an ear
• A loss of hearing

Dr. Edwardson points out that, like so many health conditions, prevention is the best approach. His advice:

• Wear earplugs in the water.
• After swimming, tilt your head to each side for a few seconds to drain the water; then blot the ear with a cotton towel.
• If you tend to develop ear problems, put two drops of a solution of half rubbing alcohol and half vinegar in each ear after swimming.

Respect the water
The first heat wave of the summer unfortunately also can bring the first tragic news from the state’s lakes, rivers and coastline. Fast currents, cold waters and underwater hazards take their toll on Oregonians trying to beat the heat.

“Messages about water safety are just as important for adults as for children,” says Vicki Kimpton, R.N., critical care registered nurse, of the Salem Hospital Trauma Department Injury Prevention staff. “Adults tend to think they are stronger swimmers than they actually are, and that can get them into real trouble.”

• Always check out the water before diving in. Murky water can look deeper than it is. Don’t assume that an area that was deep enough last week remains that way; water levels change quickly. The unfortunate result of skipping this precaution can be serious spinal-cord injury or paralysis.
• Observe a river’s current before swimming; notice how fast branches or objects move in the water and the direction they are going.
• At the ocean, watch for currents that may appear as dark, choppy water, or debris and foam floating out to sea. These are likely rip currents, which can swiftly sweep unwary beachcombers and waders out to sea. Avoid the area. If caught in a rip current, don’t panic. Swim parallel to the beach until you are out of the current, then head for the beach.
• Oregon’s waters are a frigid 40 to 60 degrees, so hypothermia can set in quickly. The cold water also means muscles tire more easily.
• Knowing how to rescue someone in distress without putting yourself at risk is an important skill. According to Kimpton, you should reach for the person, throw them something that floats, or find some kind of watercraft and row to them. Do not go into the water to reach them unless it’s absolutely necessary and you are a strong swimmer.