The summer season brings with it the natural desire to be more active. Like many other people, you might also find yourself transitioning to more outdoor activities, including opting to work out outside. However, before indulging in frolicking and taking advantage of the clear blue skies and fresh summer breezes, it is crucial to be aware of some of the dangers of exposure to the hotter temperatures and any precautions that you might take to avoid getting hurt.

Exercising in the summer exposes you to constant bombardment from the sun's rays, thus leaving you vulnerable to adverse outcomes like heat stroke and sunburn. Furthermore, age can factor in the level of risk you face as children and the elderly are the most likely to be affected first.

While it is imperative to take care of your health and safety, it is equally crucial not to let them prevent you from living a life full of fun and activities.

So, to keep yourself and your loved ones safe as you go out to enjoy the season of fun, take note of the following precautions and be diligent in observing them so that you can reduce your risk of injury or illness during the hot weather.

1) Take breaks before becoming exhausted

Children especially can easily get carried away while enjoying themselves. Consequently, you can teach them to call a stop to the activities and take short breaks every once in a while during playtime.

2) Drink enough water

Playing and exercising outside while it is hot places more demand on your body's cooling responses, so you tend to produce more sweat. In addition, if you neglect to drink enough water to replace the fluid you are constantly losing, you run the risk of getting dehydrated faster. Thus it is wise to keep your water bottle handy at all times.

3) Wear appropriate workout clothes

The materials used to make your workout clothes are a significant determinant of their suitability. Consequently, it is better to stick to breathable fabrics that allow for both sweat absorption and air circulation in the summer.

4) Avoid exercising at midday

This time of the day is hottest, so any strenuous activity can expose you to the most adverse effects of the concentrated heat. Therefore, it is best to schedule your summer outdoor workouts for the early morning or late evening when cooler temperatures prevail to avoid such outcomes.

5) Check the forecast before going for a run outside

Even when you decide to work out at the appropriate times, mother nature may surprise you with higher temperatures earlier in the day. So before you step out, make a point to check the weather forecast to know what to expect.

6) Wear sunscreen

The skin is the body's largest organ. Thus, it is more exposed to the elements. So, you are more likely to get a sunburn during the summer when the sun is most intense. Therefore, protect yourself by applying a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen that is labelled no less than SPF30.

You also have to keep applying sunscreen to all exposed areas of your body regularly as long as you are outside. So, keep in mind that you should apply sunscreen at least 20 minutes before leaving your home and then every 2 hours afterwards.

As long as you follow the safety tips listed above, you and your children will be able to enjoy the summer without worrying that your health and safety is compromised. So you can also branch out and explore the numerous activities available to take part in, including those offered in your local sports club.