New York, New York -- May 25, 2007. Summer is a time for outdoor fun -- swimming, hiking, picnics and more. But unfortunately, it can also bring beestings, sunburn, boating accidents and an increased risk of food poisoning. New York, New York -- May 25, 2007. Summer is a time for outdoor fun -- swimming, hiking, picnics and more. But unfortunately, it can also bring beestings, sunburn, boating accidents and an increased risk of food poisoning. To help keep such threats at bay, physicians and scientists associated with the American Council on Science and Health have updated their list of Health and Safety Tips for Your Summer Vacation.
Some of their advice includes:
• Beware of the summer sun -- prevent accelerated aging and reduce the risk of skin cancers by using effective sunscreens and/or protective clothing. A tan may look good now, but your skin won't as you get older.
• Be knowledgeable about woodsy areas if you're a hiker. Poison ivy, oak and sumac are widespread in the United States, and contacting them is a sure way to ruin a vacation! Know how to identify and avoid them and the itchy blisters they cause.
• Tiny deer ticks that carry Lyme disease are common in some areas -- know what they and their bites look like. If you're walking in a suspect area, wear protective clothing, use repellent, and check yourself and children carefully to avoid any bites.
• Never swim alone, and know your limits -- whether in a lake, pool or the ocean. Most drowning deaths could have been prevented.
• Protective helmets are a necessity when cycling or rollerblading -- head injuries are major causes of death from cycling accidents.
• If you're allergic to insect bites or stings, wear warning identification and carry medication if necessary.
• Know how to prevent and treat travelers' maladies such as motion or altitude sickness and travelers' diarrhea
• Protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses that block 99-100% of both UVA and UVB radiation.
• Travelers should pack a healthy suitcase -- take any prescription medications in your carry-on luggage, and if traveling out of the country, take a prescription along.
• Avoid dehydration in hot weather -- drink plenty of fluids and take breaks in cool spots when overheated. Be informed about the symptoms of heat stroke.
"Summer provides us with many opportunities for relaxation and pleasurable outdoor activities. The health and safety tips in our booklet will help people avoid many of the risks that can accompany them," said Dr. Elizabeth Whelan, American Council on Science and Health president.
CONTACT: Ruth Kava, Ph.D., R.D. (Kava@acsh.org) or Elizabeth Whelan, Sc.D., M.P.H. (WhelanE@acsh.org)
The American Council on Science and Health is an independent, non-profit consumer education organization concerned with issues related to food, nutrition, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, lifestyle, the environment and health. For more information visit http://www.acsh.org or http://HealthFactsandFears.com
