Summer Time Fun, Health and Safety!

As summer approaches and more people are spending time outside having family barbecues, and celebrating the season’s holidays, we thought we would share a few things to think about as you get into the swing of summer. If you are planning on doing some grilling, celebrating with fireworks, and enjoying some fun in the sun, we have a few easy things to consider to look out for your health and safety this summer in this week’s blog.

Backyard Barbecues
We all love getting together for some great food and good times in the backyard. Food handling is important to consider when eating outside. Be sure to wash your hands after handling raw meat, before touching anything else. Separate cutting boards used for raw meat versus vegetables. Make sure food is completely cooked by using a food thermometer to check its temperature. Also, keep your grill on a level area, and watch the kiddos around the fire. If you are serving cold foods like potato salad, be sure they are sitting on ice and stay cold the entire time.

Don’t Over-Indulge
A lot of adults like to kick back and enjoy some alcoholic beverages when they celebrate during the summer. We encourage you to drink in moderation, and not overdo it, especially in the heat and the sun. Remember to alternate a glass of water between each alcoholic drink. Having a refreshing non-alcoholic alternative available can help you moderate as well.

Fireworks Safety
If you plan on celebrating with fireworks, think safety first! Never point ignited fireworks at a person or animal. Avoid placing any part of your body over a firework when lighting it. Make sure there is an adult closely supervising, and that no one who is shooting fireworks has been drinking. Also, be sure to have a clear area and plenty of distance between where you are shooting fireworks and any people, houses, cars, etc. so that sparks and debris are not falling down on them.

Beat the Heat
As temperatures increase, and we spend more time outside, it’s important to think about sun exposure. That means remembering to wear sunscreen, and reapplying regularly. If you’re planning on getting wet or going swimming, apply your sunscreen 30 minutes before you do so it doesn’t wash off. It is also important to include sunglasses and even a hat to your sun protection routine as well. Of course, last but not least, don’t forget to hydrate. Drink lots of water! We know to look out for our furry friends, don’t forget to look out for yourself too.

At Central Ozarks Medical Center, we hope you have a great summer season! It is our mission to help improve the health of the people in the communities we serve. We love to share tips and helpful information to help you keep your family healthy and stay safe. If you’re in need of medical care in central Missouri, or if you do not yet have a primary care doctor at Lake of the Ozarks, we encourage you to explore our website, and give us a call. We are able to provide healthcare services in mid-Missouri regardless of your insurance status. At COMC, we know it’s not just what we do, but how we do it that matters. If you’d like to hear more information about healthcare in the Lake of the Ozarks area, be sure to follow us on social media. We have links to our channels below.

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