Dr. Cheung’s five tips for a safe summer

Dr. Joyce Cheung, MD CCFP (PC), is a Family Medicine and Palliative Care Physician, and William Osler Health System’s Site Chief for Family Medicine at Etobicoke General Hospital. After completing medical school at the University of Western Ontario, Dr. Cheung completed her residency at McMaster University. Dr. Cheung is also an Interim Collaborative Program Director for Toronto Metropolitan University’s new School of Medicine in Brampton.

Summertime is a great time to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. William Osler Health System’s Dr. Cheung shares her five tips for a safe summer:

Protect yourself from ticks

With warmer temperatures and a shortened cold season, ticks have become more common in Ontario. Ticks can be carriers of Lyme disease – an inflammatory infection that spreads to humans through tick bites – and prevention is your best defence! When hiking or walking in high-grass areas, always wear long-sleeve shirts and long pants tucked into your socks, and use “DEET” or “icaridin” insect repellant. Remember to check for ticks and put your clothes in the dryer as soon as you get home.

Know the air quality

With another intense wildfire season predicted, there is an increased risk of poor air quality this summer. It is important to be aware of the air quality health index (AQHI) in your area, especially if you or your children suffer from conditions like asthma. Reduce the risk of over-exposure to potentially harmful air pollutants by shortening or cancelling outdoor activities if appropriate. Check local AQHI and weather conditions.

Stay safe around water

While we all enjoy a day at the beach, pool or at a nearby lake or river, it is important to know the risks that come with spending time in or on the water. Avoid deep or unknown waters, stay within water areas you feel confident in, check water quality and always wear a well-fitted lifejacket when boating or on a watercraft. Always supervise children when they are near pools and other bodies of water and teach them about water safety.

Cover-up and protect your skin

Most of us anticipate long summer days in the sun to enjoy warm weather activities and leisure time. However, prolonged exposure to UV rays increases the risk of melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers, as well as eye or lip cancer. Always protect your skin and use sunscreen with a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, or cover-up with UPF 50 sun protection clothing.

Be careful of the heat

Summer is a great time for outdoor activities – running, cycling and rollerblading are all good for your heart and muscular health. During particularly hot days, drink lots of fluids, wear sunscreen and be mindful of heat exhaustion. Know the signs of heat stroke, including high body temperature, confusion, lack of coordination, dizziness, and not sweating, with very hot, red skin. If you have these symptoms, go indoors, or find a shady spot to sit and hydrate. If symptoms persist, visit your closest Emergency Department.