Many residents and visitors are flocking to Oakland County this summer to play at the parks, wade in the lakes and hike on the trails. Before heading out, make sure you are prepared for the heat, high humidity and sunrays. This is Part 1 of our “Summertime Safety” series — Sunburns and Heat-Related Illnesses.

Heat-Related Illness Prevention 

• If you know that you will be outside in high heat and humidity, start drinking water the day before to prevent dehydration. 
• Take breaks in a cool, shady area or indoors with a fan or air conditioning. 
• Wear light-colored clothes and breathable fabrics. 
• Use a cooling cloth or cold compress. 

Heat-Related Illness Treatment 

Heat-related illnesses can be deadly. 

• Go to a cool area. 
• Remove unnecessary clothing, like shoes, socks and outer layers. 
• Slowly drink cool water or clear juice. 
• Sit by a fan or air conditioning. 
• Place cold, wet cloths or ice packs on your head, neck, armpits and groin. If necessary, you may need to take a cold bath. 

Sunburn Prevention 

Wear sunscreen. 

• Use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 during outdoor activities, even if the sky is cloudy. 
• Apply sunscreen to your exposed skin (including your ears, scalp, lips, neck, hands and feet) at least 20 minutes before going into the sun. 
• Reapply sunscreen at least every two hours and each time you get out of the water or sweat heavily — remember, UV (ultraviolet) rays reflect off water and sand. 

Wear protective clothing. 

• Dress in a light-colored, breathable, long-sleeved shirt or rash guard and pants. 
• Put on a wide-brimmed hat that covers your face, head, ears and neck. 

Sunburn Treatment 

Sunburns can become serious. 

• Take aspirin, acetaminophen (Tylenol), or ibuprofen (Advil) to relieve discomfort. Ensure that whichever pain reliever you choose will not interact with your prescription medications. 
• Drink water. 
• Apply cool, wet cloths or  
• Take a cold bath or shower. 
• Use afterburn cream or aloe gel for comfort. 
• Cover blisters with bandages or gauze to prevent an infection. If a blister breaks, apply an antiseptic (Neosporin) to the wound. 

For more information, visit the Oakland County Health Division website. Follow along with them for more safety tips and health news on Facebook, Instagram and X.

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