The National Weather Service predicts a hot and dry summer, especially in South Idaho. A hot summer only complicates Idaho’s lack of snow, and the snowpack peaked ahead of schedule this year.
Extreme heat, drought conditions, and the resulting wildfire smoke can create serious health risks. In addition, Idahoans are also at greater risk for developing skin cancer due to the abundance of outdoor recreation combined with ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.
With the sun being a prominent risk this summer in several ways, it’s important to know how to protect yourself and your family when spending time outside.
Skin Cancer Risk and Protection
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. In the Gem State, there is an increased risk of developing skin cancer because of our outdoor lifestyle, higher elevation, and sunburn frequency due to distinct seasons. The combination of outdoor activity and UV radiation puts Idahoans at increased risk for Melanoma.
Melanoma is an aggressive type of skin cancer that can spread to other areas of the body. However, it is preventable and treatable if found early. The Skin Cancer Foundation shows how melanoma can appear on the skin. To lessen your risk of skin cancer, it is important to consistently use sunscreen and cover up with lightweight long-sleeve clothing.
Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher 15 to 30 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating. Broad-spectrum sunscreen protects against both UVA rays (which penetrate deeply and cause aging, wrinkles, and long-term damage) and UVB rays (which affect the outer skin and cause burns). For more information about UV rays, visit UT MD Anderson, and learn about choosing sunscreen at the Skin Cancer Foundation.
If you notice a mole or skin spot that’s changing, it’s important to go to a dermatologist to have it examined. All Your Health Idaho plans cover preventive care, including skin checks with a dermatologist once a year. Find a dermatologist near you with the American Academy of Dermatology’s Find a Dermatologist tool.
Extreme Heat and Wildfire Smoke
Forecasters predict a hot and dry summer, which will likely affect the area’s reservoirs and increase the risk of wildfires. Wildfire smoke can cause coughing, trouble breathing, wheezing, asthma attacks, stinging eyes, a scratchy throat, a runny nose, chest pain, and headaches.
The EPA’s Air Quality Index (AQI) converts all pollutant levels into a single number. The lower the number, the better. To protect yourself, limit exposure by staying indoors with windows closed, running an air purifier, and checking the AQI before heading outside. You can find the AQI for your area with IQ Air on your phone’s weather app.
Recognizing Heat-Related Illness
The best protection from the sun and heat is repeated application of broad-spectrum sunscreens, protective clothing, sunglasses, and hats. Wear lightweight, light-colored, and loose-fitting clothing, avoid overexerting yourself outdoors, and take breaks in the shade or air conditioning. Learn more about heat-related illness with the Red Cross.
Heat Exhaustion symptoms include:
- Heavy sweating
- Cold and clammy skin
- Fast but weak pulse
- Nausea or vomiting
- Muscle cramps
- Tiredness
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Fainting
If you notice these signs, move to a cooler area, loosen clothing, put cool wet cloths on your body, and hydrate. Seek medical help if symptoms get worse or last longer than one hour.
Heat Stroke symptoms include:
- High body temperature of 103 degrees Fahrenheit or higher
- Hot and dry or damp skin
- Fast and strong pulse
- Throbbing headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Confusion
- Loss of consciousness
Call 911 immediately and move the person to a cooler place and loosen clothing.
Stay Safe This Summer
Taking precautions can help you enjoy everything Idaho has to offer this summer while staying healthy. Stay cool, stay hydrated, and stay aware of how you’re feeling in the heat!