Summer has begun, and while that means fun by the lake, cookouts with friends, and vacations with family, it also means extreme Texas heat. In order to stay safe this summer while you try to beat the heat it’s important to know a few safety tips. Here are some tips for summer safety in Little Elm.

Stay hydrated: Even if you aren’t out in the sun all day, the heat is very drying, and you can easily become dehydrated. It’s important to try to drink the doctor-recommended eight glasses of water a day. If you’re going to be out in the sun, you should drink a big glass before you go outside, a couple while you’re out, and a big one when you come inside. This will help ward off any dehydration and keep you from getting sick.

Use sunscreen: Using sunscreen on a daily basis is the best way to protect your skin from the damaging sun. Some people use a light lotion with a low SPF on their faces, arms, hands, and legs to protect from sunburn without the heavy sunscreen feel. If you’re planning on staying outside for longer, you can use sunscreen with a higher SPF.

Swim safety: Enjoying a day at the pool or lake is the perfect way to spend your summer days. If you and your family enjoy swimming, it’s important to exercise swim safety. At the pool, children should always be supervised and children with low swimming skills should use floaties or a life jacket. At the lake, never swim in strong currents, make sure everyone is wearing a life vest, and always supervise children.

Car safety: When it’s hot outside, it’s best to keep kids and pets out of the car when it’s not running. The heat gets into the car and acts as an oven when there’s no air circulating, and that is harmful, and even deadly, for your loved ones.

Watch for signs of heat stroke: It’s easy to get tired out when the temperature is above 100 degrees as it often is in Texas during the summer. It’s important to make sure you and your family are protecting against heat stroke. If you’re outside and you or a family member feels faint or weak, is dehydrated, complaining of dizziness, a headache, or nausea, you should get help immediately. You can also talk to your doctor or a local physician about the best ways to protect you and your family from the heat.

The Little Elm Economic Development Corporation wants everyone to have a safe and relaxing summer despite the heat. We are proud of our community and all there is to offer. There are plenty of fun things to do in Little Elm this summer that will keep everyone occupied. For more information about events in our Town this summer or to learn more about what we do to promote growth within our community, find us on Facebook or Twitter!