Staying Safe in the Summer

June means it’s the start of summer! Whether you’re preparing for days at the pool, vacations, riding bikes around the neighborhood, or staying cool in the AC, it’s important to stay safe! Heat sensitivity is very normal after a brain injury and is incredibly dangerous because it could lead to a heat stroke. Brain injuries can cause your brain to not regulate temperature well.  

Here’s BIAV’s tips for staying safe this summer!

Stay hydrated

Dehydration can lead to physical and cognitive decline. Symptoms like memory loss, poor focus and attention, headaches, and irritability are common signs of your brain being dehydrated! The best ways to prevent dehydration is to drink water and eat appropriately! Foods like watermelon, strawberries, oranges, cucumbers, and lettuce all have high water content and can help you stay hydrated. So, eat a yummy fruit salad and have a glass of water! 

Wear sunscreen and use lotion

You know it’s hard to have a good summer with a bad sunburn and dry skin!  

Keep cool

Wearing loose clothing, a hat, and light colors to protect yourself from the heat and have your air conditioning or fans going when you can. Also try to avoid going between hot and cold temperatures quickly. This will help your body maintain your internal temperature.

Wear a helmet when on a bike, scooter or skates, really anything with wheels!

Summer is a great time to get outside and ride on your new bike or try a new trick on roller skates. However, wearing a helmet will keep the fun going and protect your brain. You can find the best helmets for the summer from the Virginia Tech Helmet Lab.

Wear your seatbelt!

Whether you’re travelling up and down the coast or going around the block, wear your seatbelt. Car accidents are the second leading cause of traumatic brain injuries.