Stay safe while having fun under the sun

BISMARCK, ND ( KXNET ) — As temperatures heat up this week across North Dakota, many people are getting out to enjoy their favorite activities. However, too much heat and sun can lead to no fun and health risks.

“Ready for some nice weather, we don’t get much of it in Bismarck,” said Brittany Zahn, as she was ready to tee off at Tom O’Leary Golf Course. along with many other golfers.

As the temperatures rise into the 80’s and 90’s during the long summer days, just playing a long round of golf can increase the risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke, which can be fatal.

That’s why those with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) say you should always bring along a bottle of water if you’re going to be working or playing outside under the hot summer sun.

“We always bring a bottle water and extra water,” Zahn said when she and her friends go out to play a round of golf on the course. She noted that she also puts on sunscreen before hitting the links.

According to the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services (NDHHS), too much exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays can not only lead to a painful sunburn, it can also increase the risk of developing various types of skin cancer.

Zahn says she owns a sun care clinic and always uses sunscreen if she’s going to be out in the sun for any extended period of time. NDHHS recommends that you apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to any exposed skin. They also advise that you reapply it every 2 hours if you’re going to be outside any longer.

If you’ve been outside for any period of time and begin feeling a little fatigued, NDHHS says you should get out of the sun and get yourself under some shade or indoors with some air conditioning. “We play it safe. Yeah, we take breaks. If it’s too hot, we will go inside for a bit. Especially if the kids are doing sporting events and stuff,” said Zahn.

Zahn adds that the key to enjoying a long round of golf or any activity on a hot summer day is not to overdue it.

Along with the sun, you should also keep an eye out for all those pesky little critters crawling and flying around outside. NDHHS advises using an EPA registered insect repellent with DEET to keep the bugs off of you, and to always check your body, clothing and pets for ticks before venturing back indoors.

You can find additional summertime safety tips by checking out the NDHHS website .

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