Now that it’s finally summer, you can head outside to enjoy the outdoors. Below are tips to help you stay safe this summer.

Heat-related illness happens when the body’s temperature control system is overloaded. Anyone can get sick if they participate in strenuous physical activities during hot weather. Here are some tips to beat the heat:

• Wear clothing that covers your skin
• Use sunscreen with at least SPF 15
• Drink plenty of water
• Avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages
• Schedule outdoor tasks for morning and evening hours
• Avoid extreme outdoor heat

Insects can be very dangerous. Mosquitoes and ticks are both disease-carrying. Protect yourself and your family by preventing bites and diseases, like Zika, West Nile virus and Lyme disease, which can be transmitted by insects. Here are some tips to avoid insects this summer:

• Use an effective insect repellent while outdoors
• After being outside, check yourself for ticks
• Eliminate standing water weekly to prevent mosquitoes from breeding
• Wear socks, long-sleeved shirts and long pants while outdoors

Enjoy the summer, but stay safe out there!