Safety in the Summertime

By MCSN Triniti Lersch, NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

Summer fun includes a lot of time in the sun, so it makes sense that May is the month of Skin Cancer Awareness. As we begin to plan beach trips and vacations to sunny spots, take a moment to consider your skin safety as a part of your personal risk management and mitigation practice.

Your skin has a lot of different functions; it is a stable but flexible barrier that protects your body from moisture, temperature, and UV Rays, as well as germs and toxic substances. Needless to say, protecting your skin so it can continue to protect your body is important.

Limiting sun exposure can protect you against skin cancer, wrinkles, age spots, discolorations, and benign growths. Wearing protective clothing like hats and long sleeve shirts can help protect your skin from the sun. Using skin care products that offer UV protection is one of the best ways to keep your skin safe. Using sunscreen everyday is also ideal in aiding to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

Spending time in the sun can also put you at risk for heat-related sicknesses, so drink lots of water to help fight against heat-related illnesses or injuries. Remember that alcohol will dehydrate you and it not an effective substitute for water.

No matter what you plan to do this summer, make sure to do exactly that—plan.

“It’s important to understand what you’re going to do before you go do it,” said Machinery Repairman 2nd Class Kyle Drummond, Leading Petty Officer of the Safety Department Drummond. “For instance, if you are going to go swimming, you shouldn’t go by yourself or go to far off the coast, and you should also understand riptides.”

Before a trip, it is best to make sure you have a plan, use the buddy system, and take the proper items for your planned activities. Make a list of the required materials needed for specific activities and pack accordingly. When you’re a member of the military, it is not recommended to travel alone. Traveling in groups can help protect you from theft, assault, and getting lost. If you are traveling alone, make sure to tell your friends, family and chain of command where you are going.

Making sure you’re prepared and your skin is protected will help you have fun while avoiding the pain of a sunburn and long term skin damage. Stay safe this summer, Sigonella!