Summer is a wonderful time to go outdoors with family and friends. Whether you're enjoying a picnic, pool party or outdoor fun, these tips may help you stay safe and healthy.

Stay Hydrated
Don't wait until you're thirsty to replenish fluids. When active on a hot day, try to drink two to four glasses of water every hour. Avoid alcoholic, caffeinated and sugary beverages, which can make you more dehydrated.

Prevent Sunburn
Limit your sun exposure. When you're outdoors, wear sunglasses and sunblock of SPF 30 or higher. And remember, you can get burned even on cloudy days.

Avoid Food Poisoning
Keep foods at the right temperature. Perishables should not be allowed to sit out for more than two hours -- just one hour if it's 90 degrees or hotter. Put frozen foods in a cooler with ice or gel packs. Don't carry the cooler in your car's hot trunk.

Keep an Eye on Kids and Pets

• Schedule frequent breaks. Make sure they drink water and spend some time out of the sun and heat.
• Never leave them in a closed car, even for a short time. Temperatures can rise to fatal levels in minutes. A child's body warms three to five times faster than an adult's.
• Check for hot surfaces. Direct sunlight can cause some surfaces, like steel, to reach temperatures high enough to cause contact burns in a matter of seconds. Playground equipment and other objects could harm tender skin and paws.

Know Your Risk
Children younger than age 4 and adults age 65 and older; people who are overweight or have health conditions; and those who take certain medications may be more likely to develop heat-related illness.

The Valley Health System c/o Valley Hospital Medical Center 620 Shadow Lane Las Vegas, NV 89106