Summer is now in full swing, and if you live in North Texas, you are already feeling it! Many people will be spending more time outdoors and under the sun. Often times we forget about protecting ourselves from the sun’s heat and ultraviolet rays, leading to heat exhaustion and skin damage.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. Fortunately, there are many precautions we can take to protect ourselves from the harmful UV rays.

People of all ages can protect their skin from the summer sun by applying a liberal amount of sunscreen at least 20 minutes before exposure to the sun. Sunscreen is a simple way to keep your skin looking great and reduce the risk of skin cancer. Always choose sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher. If you’re like me, get something like SPF 70. I recently found the Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Body Mist Sunblock to be awesome. Check it out and remember to re-apply every couple of hours. See the directions on the product you use for more information.

To further protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays, you should cover up exposed skin by seeking shade as much as possible during the late mornings and afternoons. (Or, like me, just stay out of the sun period during these times.) People should also wear light-colored cotton clothing. This covers your skin and allows your body to breathe easier. Hats with large brims can also protect your head, ears and neck.

Remember to wear sunglasses when outdoors. Choose lenses that block 99 to 100 percent of both UVA and UVB type rays. Sunglasses with gray-colored lenses also reduce light intensity and provide a more natural vision.

Long exposure to the sun or extensive activities in the heat can easily lead a person to heat exhaustion. Sweating acts as a coolant system for your body. This system brings your body temperature down, but it also results in the loss of large amounts of body fluids, leading to dehydration. Consuming water or sports drinks can help combat exhaustion and keep your body hydrated.

Water is a better means of hydrating your body when outdoors for small increments of time. Sports drinks work best for longer sessions as they contain ingredients that will both hydrate your body and provide the energy needed to continue your activities.

You should stay away from beverages such as soft drinks, coffee and alcohol. I know, I know… These types of drinks as super awesome, but they can actually cause your body to excrete extra fluids, causing you to dehydrate at a faster rate.

In conclusion, I recommend that people to stay out of the sun and heat as much as possible between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when UV rays and the temperature can do the most damage. By promoting safe fun under the sun this summer, we can reduce the risk of skin cancer and heat-related injuries.

Fireworks, food and fun are how many Americans will be celebrating Fourth of July this year. Some may even celebrate by recovering from injuries as the Independence Day holiday ranks second next to New Year’s Eve for alcohol related traffic accidents.

Too many lives are being shattered and lost because people still don’t understand how much alcohol impairs their ability to drive. That is why it’s important for everyone to refrain from drinking and driving this Fourth of July.

Research conducted over the years consistently indicates a higher prevalence of driving under the influence in rural versus urban areas. Nationwide, fatality rates of automobile accidents for both teens and adults were twice as high in rural areas.

The rate of teen vehicle accidents significantly increases during the summer months. Experts cite factors such as distractions from cell phones and mobile devices, excessive speed and failure to fasten seat belts.

A study by the National Highway and Safety Administration revealed 68 percent of drivers and passengers between the ages of 16 and 20 were killed in car crashes at night because seat belts were not buckled.

In a study of the 2006 Fourth of July holiday, 27 percent of all drivers involved in traffic accidents were over the legal blood alcohol concentration limit. Coupled with the higher rate of vehicle accidents in rural communities, the holiday creates a specific concern for local law enforcement officers.

I want people to celebrate Independence Day safely. That is why I am asking everybody to abstain from alcohol and other drugs, use designated drivers or plan for alternative transportation.

Spotting drivers under the influence is easy. Erratic driving, saddling lanes, weaving in and out of traffic, driving without headlights, delayed reactions to traffic signals are all signs of intoxicated drivers. Stay as far away from them as possible and call 911 immediately. By doing so, you could save a life or many.