Summer is here and while we all love spending time outside with our families at the pool, backyard cookouts, sporting events and all types of other outdoor happenings, it’s important to keep you and your family safe.

Here are a few safety tips from http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/GettingHealthy/HealthierKids/HowtoMakeaHealthyHome/Summer-Tips-for-a-Healthy-Heart_UCM_303868_Article.jsp

• Guard you and your loved ones from the sun:  Wear appropriate attire such as wide brimmed hats, light clothing, sunglasses and always use water resistant sunscreen that contains SPF 15 and reapply every two hours.
• Hydrate! Hydrate!  Hydrate!  Drink adequate amounts of water before, during and after physical activity.  A refreshing low calorie treat – add slices of your favorite fruits (lemon, lime, melons, berries, mint or even a cumber!)
• The sun is the strongest between noon and 3pm, limit intense activities during this time.
• Head inside if the heat becomes intolerable, research your local YMCA or rec centers to provide safe and cool indoor activities that your entire family will enjoy.

See your doctor immediately if you think you or a loved one is suffering from heat exhaustion.  Heat exhaustion may lead to heat stroke if not treated right away.  If you have questions about heat exhaustion, please contact Dominion Internal Medicine for more information or visit www.dominioninternalmedicine.com.  Now accepting new patients!  Most insurances accepted.