Hot weather safety for retirees

As we get older, dealing with heat and humidity gets harder. Keep these tips in mind to help protect yourself.

• Drink plenty of liquids, such as water, juices (fruit or vegetable), or drinks that contain electrolytes. Likewise, avoid alcohol and caffeinated beverages as they can dehydrate.

• Try to keep your home as cool as possible. For example, close shades, blinds and curtains; limit the use of the oven and open windows only at night.

• If your living space is hot, try to go somewhere cooler during the midday when temperatures tend to be their highest. For example, head to the grocery store, shopping mall, movies, library, etc.

• Dress to keep cool — and protect. This means lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that’s light-colored. Also, choose natural fabrics (such as cotton) since they feel cooler than synthetic fibers. Carry sunglasses and remember a broad-brimmed hat if you have one.

• If you’re going outside, be sure to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher. Equally important … reapply throughout the day as sunscreen wears off over time.

• Talk to your doctor about your medications. There is a wide variety of medicines that can cause sensitivity to the sun.

Enjoy the sun and summer and all that the warm weather brings. But a little planning and precaution can go a long way to staying safe!

Many of our favorite summer activities involve water: swimming, fishing, boating … the list goes on. To help keep you and your family safe, we invite you to check out these water safety tips from the American Red Cross.