by kathy hayes
1. Be Sun Safe
In Colorado, where UV rays are intense, the incidence of melanoma is
30% higher than national rates. Children’s melanoma risk doubles if
they have two blistering sunburns before they’re 18.
- Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen (UVA
and UVB protection) that’s water-resistant and has an SPF (“sun
protection factor”) of 15 or higher.
- Slather it on. Reapply often. The
biggest mistakes people make are not applying enough sunscreen and
not reapplying often enough. Follow the directions on the
container.
- Cover up and wear a hat with a
brim, especially between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
- Stay in the shade when possible.
- Always wear sunglasses with 100%
UV protection.
- Teach sun safety to children.
More info:
www.sunsafecolorado.org
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2. Ascend with Caution
Take care when visiting the high country, especially if you have
visitors from lower elevations along. The thin air at 8,000 feet and
higher deprives your blood of oxygen. Go too high too fast, and you
may get a headache, feel nauseated and become weak. People who have
heart or lung problems are most at risk.
- If coming from sea level,
acclimate for one to three days before going to higher altitudes.
- Exercise moderately.
- Decrease caffeine, alcohol and
salt intake.
- Drink extra fluids and eat a high-carb,
low-fat diet.
- Ask your doctor beforehand if you
need a medication to help prevent altitude sickness.
- If you feel ill at altitude,
descend to a lower location.
More info:
www.americanheart.org.
Search for “high-altitude sickness.”
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3. Don’t Drink the Water
A tiny parasite, Giardia lamblia, inhabits many outdoor
waters (including hot tubs and pools) and can wreak havoc on your
digestive system.
- Boil stream or lake water at a
hard boil for at least 10 minutes before drinking it.
- Add five drops of tincture of
iodine to a quart of water to kill bacteria within 30 minutes.
- When swimming, avoid swallowing
the water.
- To keep from spreading giardia,
wash your hands with soap and water after using the bathroom;
teach children to do the same.
More info: www.cdc.gov.
Search for “giardia.”
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4. Fend off Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes infected with West Nile virus inhabit Larimer County from
June until the first frost. Most people infected with the virus do
not get sick and do not know they have it. Others develop West Nile
fever or even more severe forms of the infection, which can cause
coma, tremors, vision loss and paralysis.
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5. Don’t Rock the Boat
Before you launch your boat, know the rules: You must be 16 or older
to operate a boat or a personal watercraft in Colorado. Anyone who
is physically controlling any motorized or non-
motorized watercraft and who has a blood alcohol content of 0.08 or
higher could receive a BUI.
- Always wear a life jacket that
fits snugly and is in good condition.
- Children need life jackets made
especially to fit them.
- Know the rules of the water, and
follow them.
- Have your boat inspected for
safety, and properly equip it.
- Don’t drink and boat.
More info:
www.parks.state.co.us/boating |
6. Cycle Safely
One mishap on a bicycle could result in an injury that could impair
you for the rest of your life. Cyclists need to take charge of their
own safety by obeying the law and practicing safe habits.
- Wear a properly fitting, intact
helmet. If it ever bit the dust, pitch it and buy a new one.
- Make sure your bike is in good
working condition and is a good fit for you.
- Wear bright clothes. Put
reflectors on your bike. Use front and rear lights after dusk.
- Always ride in the same direction
as traffic.
- Pay close attention to other
vehicles, pedestrians and road hazards.
- Know and follow the rules of the
road.
More info:
www.fcgov.com/bicycling/rules.php
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