Ireland and its normally sun-deprived, milk-bottled inhabitants are still in shock that we are now into our second spell of beautiful sunny weather of the Summer! With temperatures having reached the high 20s in some parts of the country, it is no surprise that everyone is lapping up as much Vitamin D as they can.
We cannot be sure how long it will last, but we will continue to enjoy it as long as it is here! Not to try and put a damp note on this, but there are a number of things we should consider while it’s hot, hot, hot. There are a few warm-weather pitfalls which can be easily avoided, so here they are!
Seven Tips to Help Avoid Summer Weather-Related Injuries
The Lawn Mower
This garden tool is not surprisingly the source of many summertime injuries. Debris which gets whirled into the machine’s blades can become a serious hazard. So, before you mow the lawn, make sure you have gotten rid of sticks, rocks, and other items that might be lurking on it. It is also recommended that you wear a solid pair of boots and eye protection. This goes without saying, but NEVER touch the machine’s blades while it is on.
The BBQ
There is a lot that can go wrong with a BBQ, so if you don’t want the back garden to go up in flames, always stay safe. This is even more important when a few beers get thrown into the equation. Rule of thumb: you want your food to sizzle, not your skin. To avoid burns, be cautious. The majority of burns occur when the Cook has lit the grill incorrectly or used the incorrect fuel. Be patient with your coals; dousing them with gasoline or other flammable liquids can be very dangerous. Always reach for food with a long-handled set of tongs to protect your skin.
Bug Bites
Unfortunately, warm weather brings out pesky insects who love to annoy humans! Staying indoors during dusk is wise, as that is when creatures are at their biting peak! If you cover up and wear repellents which contain DEET, you should be alright. Should you get stung by bees or wasps, apply an ice pack to the affected area and take antihistamines to reduce swelling. If any further symptoms develop, consult a doctor immediately (you may be having an allergic reaction).
Sunburn
Being Irish, we are naturally paler than most; we need to apply sun cream, yet we so regularly decide not to. Sunburn can be incredibly painful, as many of us know all too well, so apply cream, wear hats and sleeves, and stay in the shade if you are feeling the wrath of the sun! We all know about the dangers of skin cancer, so don’t put yourself at risk.
Summer Outdoor Sports
There are few things more enjoyable than playing sports and games outside on a good day. Tennis, golf, football, tag rugby, swimming, rounders and throwing around a Frisbee are just a few of the summer games played. Just be sure to have a quick stretch before to avoid injuries like strains and pulled muscles, even if you are only playing at a casual pace or level. Remember that wearing the right gear is important too – Kicking a football in flip-flops is a recipe for disaster! Again, if you are in the sun’s rays, put on sun cream!!
Hydration
This is so important and cannot be emphasised enough. We need to drink between 2-3 litres of water a day, and this amount increases during hot weather, especially if losing fluids through perspiration. So keep a big bottle of water handy and keep drinking through the day! You can read more about hydration here.
Footwear
Our physiotherapists and podiatrists see many injuries from people wearing summer footwear and the resulting accidents. Open and breezy footwear like flip-flops and sandals are the culprits here. These items usually have thin soles that offer little or no support for the feet, which can lead to problems. They can lead to foot, leg and back aches. Also, because they are thin, they can be easily punctured by stepping on something sharp, like a stone or glass. So, try to pick a pair of shoes that are suitable for what you are doing. If you are playing sports or going for a walk, go with a supportive type of shoe.
We hope these tips are helpful to you! If you have an injury you think we can help with, we have multiple physio clinics and podiatry clinics to help your recovery.
