After the long winter and extended spring (ask lakeshore residents about Wisconsin’s ‘fifth season’), Wisconsinites know how to maximize the summer months. There’s no shortage of ways to revel in summer’s glory — from flocking to the Northwoods’ many lakes and hiking trails to boating on the Chain of Lakes near Madison, Wisconsin has it all.
Getting outside in the summer doesn’t come without risk, however. This blog will walk you through outdoor safety tips to protect yourself from summer hazards like sun exposure, heat, insects, water activities, and more.
Sun safety: Protect your skin
Basking in the sun is one of summer’s great pleasures but protecting your skin is key to avoiding both short- and long-term risks. To ensure your skin stays shielded, choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. If your skin is pale (like this writer’s), use sunscreen with an SPF no lower than 50. Apply it generously to all exposed areas and reapply every two hours, especially if you’re swimming or sweating. Don’t forget often overlooked spots like your ears, feet, and neck.
Make smart clothing choices, too. Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants made from breathable fabrics are perfect for defending against harmful rays. Consider wearing UV-protective clothing for added coverage. Wide-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses are also effective at preventing sunburn and heat-related discomfort.
If you don’t take these precautions, sunburn or heat exhaustion could sneak up on you. Sunburn will show as reddened skin or swelling, while heat exhaustion symptoms are heavy sweating and dizziness (more below). If these symptoms appear, seek shade, hydrate, and cool down.
Heat safety: Stay cool and hydrated
In Wisconsin, it’s not uncommon for the heat index to soar above 100 degrees in the summer. This can even happen in May and September.
Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are serious summer threats but are preventable. Heat exhaustion results from excessive water and salt loss, causing symptoms like heavy sweating and weakness. If untreated, it can lead to heat stroke, which is potentially life-threatening.
Staying hydrated is the most important thing you can do when it’s hot outside. Drink water often, even when you don’t feel thirsty. If you’re spending an extended time outdoors, carry a refillable water bottle or hydration pack. During heat waves, include foods with high water content in your diet, like watermelon and cucumbers. Steer clear of caffeinated or alcoholic drinks — they’ll dehydrate you.
Timing your outdoor activities helps manage heat risks, too. The sun angle is strongest between 10 AM and 4 PM, so plan your activities for early morning or in the evening when it’s cooler.
Insect safety: Avoid bites and stings
It wouldn’t be summer in Wisconsin without encountering mosquitoes, ticks, and bees, all of which pose health risks. Mosquitoes can transmit diseases like West Nile virus, while ticks can carry Lyme disease. Minimize these risks by:
- Wearing long sleeves and pants in light colors to deter insects
- Using insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin on exposed skin to reduce bites
- Avoiding areas with standing water, as they attract mosquitoes
- Keeping food covered to prevent bees from being drawn to sugary items
If bitten or stung, stay calm. Wash the area with soap and water and apply a cool compress to reduce swelling. Over-the-counter antihistamines or hydrocortisone cream will help relieve itching.
If stung by a bee, remove the stinger promptly and clean the area. Monitor for allergic reactions like facial swelling, which require immediate medical attention.
Water safety: Stay alert and prepared
Whether you’re boating on Lake Winnebago, kayaking along the Wisconsin River, or simply swimming at your neighbor’s pool, spending time in the water is a summertime staple for many Wisconsinites. However, water activities require vigilant safety measures. Here are three:
- Life jackets are indispensable for water safety, which greatly reduces the risk of drowning. According to the Red Cross, an average of 11 people die in the U.S. every day from unintentional drowning. When on the water with family and friends, make sure everyone, especially children, wears a properly fitted life jacket.
- Supervision is key to children’s safety around the water. Assign a responsible adult to watch over children at pools, lakes, or rivers. Teaching children about water safety, like staying close to adults, empowers them to make safer choices.
- Understanding swimming hazards is crucial to your safety. Whether in a pool or natural body of water, be aware of strong currents, sudden drop-offs, and obstacles. Take time to assess the swimming area for visible risks before diving in.
Outdoor activity safety: Plan and prepare
Choosing low-risk locations for your outdoor activities is another way to ensure safe experiences. Select areas that are well-known and maintained for safety, like state parks. Whether you’re visiting a park or hitting a hiking trail, make sure the spot is suited for your activity and ability level. Check for potential hazards like rocky terrain or wildlife.
Before heading out, let a family member or friend know about plans — share your destination, expected return time, and emergency contacts. This is particularly important for remote areas with limited cell reception. You’ll also want to pack essential safety gear. Depending on your activity, include items like first aid kits, water purification systems, and navigational tools. For hiking, sturdy footwear and a reliable backpack are important, while life jackets are essential for water activities.
Protecting what matters most extends beyond the summer months. Whether you’re looking to safeguard your car, home, business, or farm, a local Rural Mutual agent can customize a coverage plan to give you peace of mind.
