It’s that time we all look forward to after the long winter months – spring break! While many people prepare mentally and physically for their trips, there are still some things you should consider once you get to your vacation spot.
We’ve broken down a few key ways that you can stay safe and healthy during your spring trips!
Protect Yourself From the Sun
After our cold midwest winter, it’s natural to want to try and soak up as much sun as you can! However, excessive and unexpected exposure to the sun can result in premature aging, changes in skin texture, and even skin cancer (CDC). Here are a few key ways you can protect yourself from the sun and still have fun:
- Wear sunscreen with at least SPF 15 and be sure to re-apply every two hours or after swimming. Make sure that your sunscreen hasn’t expired!
- Put on your favorite pair of UVA and UVB protection sunglasses.
- Find a fun hat that can shade your face, ears, and the back of your neck. If you’re wearing a baseball cap, don’t forget to sunscreen your ears and neck!
- When possible, wear shirts that can provide protection from UV rays.
Even if other people around you aren’t taking these steps to protect themselves from the sun, have the courage to do these on your own! Over the course of your life, your skin will thank you.
Stay Hydrated with H20
It’s no secret that spring break is often associated with drinking alcohol. If drinking alcohol is part of your spring break, be mindful of your consumption. According to the CDC, alcohol-related motor vehicle crashes kill someone every 31 minutes and non-fatally injure someone every two minutes. There are plenty of fun, non-alcoholic alternatives that you can take part in on spring break!
And, while you’re watching your alcohol consumption, you should be mindful of how much water you’re drinking too! Days in the sun without water can lead to dehydration. Dehydration can cause headaches, dry skin, muscle cramps, feeling dizzy, rapid heartbeat, and more.
Follow these tips to stay hydrated:
- Carry a water bottle with you for easy access
- Choose water instead of sugary-sweet drinks
- Avoid drinking alcohol, as it can dehydrate you
Use the Buddy System (Yes, Really!)
No matter your age, it’s always smart to make sure that someone else knows where you are at all times, especially in a new location. Stick with one person throughout your trip, and make sure you keep them by your side! If you happen to get separated, take advantage of helpful apps like the Find My Friends app for iPhones or Android, so you can easily share your location and meet up again as soon as possible.
If you go out in groups, pay attention and notice if someone in your group is in an uncomfortable situation.
Pass it On!
You should share this article with someone you know that is currently on spring break, about to go on spring break, or is planning a trip for the future! It’s always the right time to encourage the ones you love to stay safe and healthy, so their fun can last long beyond the days their spring break is over!
Interested in finding more safe spring break tips? You can find advice from the CDC on safe spring break tips here: https://www.cdc.gov/family/springbreak/index.htm
Protect Yourself and Others from COVID-19
This year, take care to consider how you can protect yourself and others from COVID-19. As always, the best way to learn how to prevent the spread of COVID is by checking the current CDC guidelines.
In addition, here are a few ideas:
- Wear a mask to protect yourself and others and stop the spread of COVID-19.
- Stay at least 6 feet (about 2 arm lengths) from others who don’t live with you.
- Avoid crowds. The more people you are in contact with, the more likely you are to be exposed to COVID-19.
