Be Ready for Camping or Day Camp

By Vanessa Racine, social medias coordinator
 
Here are some tips for staying healthy and safe during camping or at a day camp.
 
SUN PROTECTION
As fun as hot and sunny days can be, going out in the sun unprepared can be risky. After all, who hasn’t experienced the discomfort and pain of a sunburn at least once?
 
In the long term, UV rays can also damage the skin and cause premature aging, as well as contribute to the development of skin cancer. This is why it’s important to protect yourself all summer long, especially during frequent and lengthy outdoor activities. Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen is an effective and accessible way to protect against the harmful effects of the sun. A number of other steps should also be taken for maximum sun protection.
 
To keep yourself or your kids from looking like a lobster, here are some tips to prevent and treat sunburns.
 
HEAT-RELATED EMERGENCY
During the summer, temperatures rise by several degrees. The human body has several ways to stabilize its internal temperature. Heat-related emergencies occur when the body becomes dehydrated, which may result in an increased body temperature. Heat cramps, heat exhaustion, or heat stroke, can happen to anyone who stays in the summer heat and sun for too long. It is important for everyone enjoying the outdoors to know how to prevent heat emergencies, recognize when someone has been in the heat for too long, and be able to provide help when needed. Learn how to identify the signs of a heat-related emergency, and what to do.
 
PROTECTION AGAINST MOSQUITOES
Is there anything more annoying than being feasted on by mosquitoes? Insect bites are uncomfortable and often cause symptoms such as redness, pain or itching — but these aren’t the only risks associated with these pesky pests. They can also transmit infection, since mosquitoes can carry West Nile virus, and ticks can be carriers of the bacteria that cause Lyme disease.
 
Using an effective insect repellent and taking other precautions are winning strategies for a bite-free, worry-free summer. Other insects may also try to join in on your summertime activities. Here are a few useful resources for more information on first aid for bee and wasp stings and ticks and Lyme disease.
 
FIRST AID KIT
During a vacation, there are many reasons you may need a first aid kit, such as scrapes, minor cuts or burns, allergic reactions, rashes, or vomiting. Since you can’t foresee what the summer has in store for you, it’s best to be prepared for any eventuality. Learn about what should go in a well-stocked first aid kit.
 
By downloading the Canadian Red Cross First Aid app, you can get access to safety tips at any time, even without reception or an Internet connection.

Have a safe summer!
 
 
Related stories:
Enjoy the outdoors with 8 safety tips
Summertime time to prepare against bugs

 

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