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Now that summer is in full swing, it’s a good time to be reminded of simple ways to ensure we all have an active, safe season of fun. Prowers Medical Center health professionals would like to share ten summer safety tips with you:
1. Watch the Weather
Since weather conditions can change quickly in Prowers County, always look up the immediate forecast and plan accordingly before heading out for an outdoor activity.
2. Start with Sun Protection
Prowers County enjoys an average of 340 days of sunshine a year. If you’re going to be outdoors, apply ample sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher to all exposed skin before leaving the house. Wearing long sleeves, long pants and a hat that shades your face is also a good idea.
3. Stay Hydrated
Lamar summers are dry and hot. Proper hydration helps regulate your body temperature and ward off heatstroke. Stay hydrated by drinking a full glass of water first thing in the morning and carrying a water bottle wherever you go.
4. Beat the Heat
Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are no joke. In addition to staying hydrated, keep to the shade as much as possible. If you get overheated, plunge into cold water to lower your body temperature quickly. And never leave children or pets in a parked car because the temperature inside can rise by 20 degrees in just 10 minutes.
Men’s Health Month
Men’s Health Month
June is the perfect month for men of all ages to make an appointment for an annual check-up, get routine tests done, or even just to make adjustments to a healthier life.
Common health screenings for men:
• Blood Cholesterol
• Blood Pressure
• Colon Cancer
• Diabetes
• Prostate Cancer
To make an appointment to get your health on track, call Prowers Medical Center Clinic at
5. Carry a First Aid Kit
Always carry a first aid kit in your car or outdoor gear bag. Make sure it contains compression wrap, bandaids, antibiotic ointment, antihistamine tablets, hand sanitizer and antiseptic wipes. Tweezers are also good for removing splinters and ticks.
6. Protect Against Pests
Mosquitoes can carry the Zika and West Nile viruses. Bug repellents that contain DEET, Picaridin, oil of lemon or eucalyptus, or IR 3535 offer the best protection. Ticks can carry various diseases, including tick fever. Spraying shoes, clothing and gear with products containing 0.5% permethrin helps ward off ticks. If you’re stung by a bee or wasp, remove the stinger with your fingers (tweezers can squeeze more venom into your skin), wash the area with soap and water, and apply ice to reduce swelling. Carry an EpiPen if you’re allergic.
7. Chill and Grill
Only grill outside and keep your grill at least 10 feet away from your house. Never leave a hot grill unattended. And keep a fire extinguisher close by just in case.
8. Guard Against Yard Injuries
When mowing or using yard tools, wear shoes that fully cover your feet. Keep kids away because mowers and trimmers can throw objects such as rocks. If you’re using a ladder, wear shoes with slip-resistant soles and place the ladder on firm, level ground. Maintain three points of contact—face the ladder and have two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand, in contact with the ladder at all times.
9. Use Caution with Fireworks
Never point or throw fireworks at anyone. Douse spent fireworks with water to prevent trash fires. Don’t allow kids to handle fireworks. Within Lamar city limits, fireworks that launch into the air or explode are illegal.
10. Be Vigilant Near Water
For summer activities that include swimming or water sports, take appropriate precautions. Be sure anyone who’s in or near the water can swim well and has a life vest on when appropriate. Children should be constantly supervised by adults and/or lifeguards when they’re around water. Stay indoors if there’s lightning in the area.
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