By Dr. David Butler-Jones MD, Chief Public Health Officer of Canada

There is nothing better than the “lazy days of summer”! Whether you plan to travel or partake in a “staycation”, you will likely spend time outside, enjoying the warm, sunny weather.

As we approach the summer months, it is important to be aware of the health risks that can accompany fun in the sun and understand how to avoid them. By taking simple precautionary measures, you can help ensure a healthy summer for you and your family.

Practice sun safety!
The most common risk associated with the summer season is prolonged sun exposure. While soaking up the warmth of the sun can have wonderful positive effects, practicing sun safety will help you avoid sunburn and heat exhaustion or heat stroke—all of which can cost you in time lost either at work or in precious vacation days.

Some simple sun safety tips include:

• Check the local weather station for the UV index in your area when planning an outdoor activity – if it is 3 or higher, don’t leave the house without your sunglasses, sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat;
• Apply sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher to all exposed skin 20 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours (more often if you are swimming or sweating);
• Limit exposure to the sun between 11am and 4pm, when the sun rays are the strongest; and
• Stay hydrated, wear light, loose fitting clothing and slow down – remember, summer is for relaxing!

Protect yourself from insect bites!
As we spend more time outside, we increase our chances of insect bites, which can bring the risk of such serious illnesses as West Nile virus and Lyme disease.

West Nile virus is transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito and while there is a minimal chance of being infected and even less chance of becoming ill once infected, anyone exposed to mosquitoes in an area where West Nile virus is active is at risk.

Some basic planning will ensure that you limit your risk for mosquito bites:

• Wear protective clothing such as a long-sleeved shirt, long pants and a hat (light colours are best);
• Apply insect repellent containing DEET to any exposed skin, avoiding your mouth and eyes. When using sunscreen and insect repellent, apply the sunscreen first;
• Eliminate possible mosquito breeding grounds by regularly draining standing water from such items as pool covers, recycle bins, bird baths and pet bowls; and
• Inspect all door and window screens for holes and make sure they fit tightly.

Lyme disease is spread by the bite of certain species of ticks, if infected. If your plans include camping or other forms of extended time spent outside such as walking in tick infested areas, it is important to take some basic precautions to lessen the risk:

• Wear light-coloured, long-sleeved shirts and pants when in wooded areas or tall grass;
• Pull your socks up over your pant legs and wear shoes that cover your entire foot;
• Spray clothing as well as any exposed skin with an insect repellent containing DEET; and
• Check for any attached ticks once you’ve finished your outdoor activity. If you find a tick on your body, use tweezers to gently pull it straight out.

It’s important to remember that sunscreen and products containing DEET should not be applied to babies 6 months or younger. If you are heading outside with your infant, it is best to avoid direct sunlight and to cover their skin with tightly-woven, loose-fitting clothing and a brimmed hat. Additionally, you can protect your infant or toddler by using a carrier covered in mosquito netting with an elastic edge for a tight fit. Products containing DEET should only be used once a day in concentrations of 10 per cent or less on children between 6 months and 2 years of age, and can be used up to three times a day for older children from 2 to 12 years of age.

It’s a short season—spend it well
The summer season is a time to relax and enjoy the company of family and friends. As you start to plan your summer months, please keep in mind the few simple precautions that can help ensure you and your family enjoy a healthy summer this year.

For more information, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada’s website at http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/.

Dr. David Butler-Jones is Canada's first Chief Public Health Officer and is head of the Public Health Agency of Canada.