” Summer time and the livin’ is easy…the frogs are jumpin’ and the cotton is high.” Well, as we all know, the lyrics from this song in “Porgy and Bess” is introducing the audience to not only a new way of life but a change in the seasons. The axis has turned and we are in the throws of summer time.
It’s time to consider that during this time of year, we are all prone to the health issues that come with this season – sun burns, dehydration, insect bites and stings, falls, sprains, broken bones, traffic accidents, boating mishaps and camping casualties. People are just more active when the weather is warmer – it’s a fact of life, at least in this area. Not only that but we tend to “let our guard down” when we are enjoying ourselves. Which means that we are less vigilant with our safety issues and health maintenance rules. We drink more alcohol and less water. We eat more carbohydrates and less protein. We get less refreshed sleep and stay up later watching more sports activities. We move around more and aggravate our muscles more than we are used to. Let’s face it, there are a lot more “week-end warrior” out there on the playing field in the summer time.
So, let’s all be more vigilant. Make that extra effort to drink more water. Before deciding to be part of that week-end football or soccer game, you may want to spend some time in the gym and tone-up a few “under-used” muscles, first. When taking that beautiful boat out into the pristine lake, stop and think – did I pack the sunscreen, insect repellent, life vests and extra batteries? Your friends will ask you to go hiking and you will say, “Sure, and I’ll wear my good hiking boots and bring a current map of the trails – don’t want to get lost.”
It’s really very simple – be prepared and stay aware! Have a great summer.
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