Stay Safe and Enjoy the Outdoors: Tips for Warm Weather Activities with IDD

WARM WEATHER TIPS AND PRECAUTIONS FOR ENJOYING THE GREAT OUTDOORS

As the weather heats up, we're all gearing towards sping more time outdoors. Ensuring safety while maximizing enjoyment requires proactive measures, especially for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities IDD. IntellectAbility has developed a guide titled The Great Outdoors! Warm Weather Edition designed to make your outdoor experience both enjoyable and safe.

Sun Protection:

1. Limit Exposure: Stay out of the sun's rays between 10 AM and 2 PM when they're strongest.

2. Apply SPF 30 or Higher: Protect skin with sunscreen applied every two hours, especially after sweating or swimming.

3. SPF Clothing: Wear clothing rated for sun protection to shield your skin.

Hydration:

Regular fluid intake is crucial during warmer months and physical activities.

1. Indulge in Refreshers: Popsicles, sno-cones, frozen juices, fruits, and vegetables with high water content like melons can boost hydration.

2. Monitor Signs of Dehydration: Look for dry skin, sunken eyes, chapped lips, darker urine, decreased urine output, or altered consciousness. Immediate medical attention is necessary if symptoms are noted.

Insect Defense:

1. Use Insect Repellent: Apply as directed by the manufacturer.

2. Cover Up: Wear protective clothing to minimize tick bites and bee stings.

3. Inspect After Activities: Check skin for ticks post-outdoor activities.

4. Avoid Poisonous Plants: Recognize signs of poison ivy, oak, or sumac.

Safety Measures:

1. Be Mindful of Terrn: Uneven paths increase the risk of falls; ensure proper footwear suited to the activity.

2. Mossy Surfaces: Be cautious near water bodies as moss can make surfaces slippery.

3. Poisonous Plants: Do not eat berries or plants unless you're certn they are safe.

Additional Tips:

1. Check on Loneliness: Ensure well-being of individuals living alone during hot weather.

2. Never Leave in a Vehicle: Avoid leaving individuals unatted, even for brief periods.

3. Blisters Prevention: Ensure footwear fits correctly and monitor for any signs of blisters.

Wildlife Awareness:

1. Identify Hazards: Be aware of wildlife risks like snakes, spiders, bears, scorpions, etc., in your area.

2. Carry EpiPens: Have them avlable if anyone is known to have severe allergic reactions and consider carrying two pens for possible repeat doses.

Medication Review:

Discuss medications with a pharmacist regarding their effects on light sensitivity and temperature regulation.

Cell Phone Readiness: Always carry a cell phone in good condition or ensure adequate signal coverage unless otherwise planned.

With these precautions, the risks of outdoor activities can be minimized, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the outdoors safely. For more information, download resources from https:replacingrisk.comidd-resources.

About the Author:

Dr. Crg Escude is a certified Fellow of both the American Academy of Family Physicians and the American Academy of Developmental Medicine. He's also the President of IntellectAbility, serving as Medical Director at Hudspeth Regional Center in Mississippi and founder of DETECT. With over two decades of clinical experience caring for individuals with IDD and complex medical conditions, he authored Clinical Pearls in IDD Healthcare and Curriculum in IDD Healthcare.

Source: EP Magazine

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