By Leyton Ezzell
Summer may be fun. However, the fun in the sun may need more than just your average amount of sunscreen. June, July, and August can be hazardous months in general. For example, did you know that they are the busiest months for lightning strikes? Even so, the risk of getting struck by lightning is only about 1 in 500,000. However, the risk of having a heat stroke in these scorching months is much higher, especially if one does not take proper precautions.
So, what exactly are heat strokes? The CDC defines Heat strokes as what happens when the body has become unable to regulate its own body heat, causing the sweating mechanism to shut down, thus making the body unable to cool down. The CDC also says that body heat can rise as high as 106 degrees within 10 – 15 minutes. Heat strokes are incredibly severe, being a significant concern for those with other conditions, those who work on farms, or those who currently play sports. During 2004–2018, an average of 702 heat-related deaths (415 with heat as the underlying cause and 287 as a contributing cause) occurred in the United States annually.
How can you avoid heat strokes? First, you could wear loose-fitting clothing. Although tight clothes are fine to a certain extent, these types of clothes do trap heat. Second, and possibly most important, drink lots of liquids. Water is the best choice, but drinks such as Gatorade work well, too. As well, never leave a living thing in an off car. Unfortunately, lots of animals, children, and elderly die from this type of negligence.
Heat strokes may be deadly. However, things like poison ivy and oak are not. Poison Ivy usually gives a rash on the affected area, nothing too serious. A common treatment would be an over-the-counter ointment for a few days. The CDC says to also immediately wash skin with rubbing alcohol, soap, specialized ointment, and lots of water.
While summer is always fun for families, just like any other season, there are always dangers that come with it. We always need to find out and learn about these risks to have the most fun while being as safe as possible. Always be prepared with water, sunscreen, ointment, and anything else that you may need for fun in the summer.
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