• Wear a brimmed hat and UV protected sunglasses when you go outside to protect your scalp and shade your eyes from exposure.
• Wear sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Apply to all exposed skin about 30 minutes before going outside, and reapply throughout the day.
• Stick to the shade. If you’re at the beach, sit under a tree or umbrella and avoid as much sun as possible during the peak hours of sun, from about 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Drink water throughout the day. Keeping your body hydrated will prevent many heat-related illnesses.
• Know the symptoms of heat stroke: red or hot skin without sweat, headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion and sometimes unconsciousness. If you have these symptoms, get to a cool, shaded area, avoid drinking fluids, cool the body externally and seek medical assistance.
• Take note of any skin changes including discoloration and new or changing moles or freckles. Talk to your doctor about these changes to screen for and prevent harmful symptoms.