Summer safety reminders

Published on June 18, 2026

Summer is a great time to enjoy the outdoors, but it's also important to take steps to protect your health and safety. Keep these tips from the Oak Park Public Health Department in mind throughout the season:

Stay Hydrated…Drink plenty of water, especially during hot weather and outdoor activities. Don't wait until you're thirsty to hydrate, and limit beverages that can contribute to dehydration.

Practice Sun Safety…Use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, wear protective clothing and sunglasses, and seek shade during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Reapply sunscreen every two hours and after swimming or sweating.

Be Safe Around Water…Never leave children unattended near pools, lakes or other bodies of water. Designate a responsible adult to supervise swimmers and ensure children and inexperienced swimmers wear properly fitted life jackets when appropriate.

Wear a Helmet…Whether biking, skateboarding, rollerblading or riding a scooter, always wear a properly fitted helmet to reduce the risk of serious head injuries.

Handle Food Safely…Keep cold foods cold and hot foods hot, especially during picnics and cookouts. Wash hands before preparing food, avoid cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods, and use a food thermometer to ensure meat is cooked to a safe temperature.

Prevent Heat-Related Illness…Take breaks in the shade or air conditioning, wear lightweight clothing, and watch for signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, especially among children, older adults and outdoor workers.

Protect Against Insects…Use EPA-registered insect repellent and check for ticks after spending time outdoors to help prevent mosquito- and tick-borne diseases.

For more information about the Oak Park Public Health Department, visit www.oak-park.us/health or contact health@oak-park.us.