The graduation ceremony on Saturday, May 11 marks the official end of the 2012-2013 academic school year. As students look forward to a summer filled with relaxation and excitement, the Idaho State University Wellness Center offers some advice for students to stay their healthiest over the summer break.
“Summer is the time for vacation and having fun,” says Melissa Orgill, a Graduate Teaching Assistant at the Wellness Center, “but if you take some simple precautions you can enjoy the break and stay safe.”
The tips offered by the Wellness Center can be broken down into three main categories — sun safety, food safety, and water safety.
Sun safety is very important, says Orgill. “You need to protect yourself by wearing sunscreen and lip balm with an SPF of 30 or higher.”
However, sunscreen isn’t the only important preventative measure. Orgill also advises students pay attention to the clothing they wear.
“Sun and heat recommendations include wearing lightweight and loose fitting clothing, and wearing a hat.” By staying cooler overall, students are better able to prevent things like heatstroke.
“I would also encourage students to drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated is really important through the hot summer months.”
Food safety is critical throughout the summer months, especially with outdoor events, like barbecues and picnics, says Orgill. With warmer temperatures, bacteria can easily grow on exposed food and food surfaces.
Orgill breaks down food precautions into four tips.
“The first is to wash your hands, wash your utensils, wash your cutting board — especially between meats.” Washing everything between meats significantly lowers the risks of cross-contamination.
Secondly, Orgill advises washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly.
Thirdly, “cook meat thoroughly, and check an internal heat thermometer indicating ‘done.’”
Finally, Orgill suggests refrigerating leftover foods quickly. “This is especially important in summertime picnics and barbecues.”
Orgill’s final category of summer safety is water.
Orgill advises students take “basic precautions — never swim by yourself, never swim in unsupervised locations, do not dive into unfamiliar waters.”
Added to that, Orgill feels students should never mix alcohol with water sports, whether its swimming, boating, or water skiing.
“Supervise children at all times,” Orgill cautions.
Keeping these tips in minds, students can enjoy a summer filled with relaxation and enjoyment while remaining safe.