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Tips For a Safe (But Fun) Independence Day

With a long weekend ahead of barbecues, beaching, picnics, fireworks and other fun outdoor activities, we at Good Food Made Simple want to remind you how important it is to keep healthy throughout the festivities. Here’s a quick list of some pointers on how to make sure you’re taking care of yourself amidst the Independence Day weekend hoopla.

Sun Safety

• While sun bathing is a popular summertime activity, the sun’s rays can leave long lasting and harmful effects on our skin. Before heading out to the beach this weekend, be mindful of these tips to help keep your skin healthy and safe:
  • Use Plenty of Sunscreen: Always use a water-resistant sunscreen with minimum SPF 30 and apply thirty minutes before sun exposure. Don’t forget to reapply every two hours!
  • Cover Up: Although using sunscreen is a great idea for long days in the sun, go the extra mile and cover your head, face and eyes with hats and eyewear. In addition to sunscreen, these items give you more all-around protection for the entire day.
  • Plan Your Excursions Accordingly: The sun is strongest between 10AM and 4PM so try planning outdoor events for later in the day.  And if you cannot escape the sunshine, take shade breaks and get out of the sun for bits of time periodically throughout the day.
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Hydration

• Keeping yourself hydrated could be one of the most important things you can remember when going out into the heat. Our bodies are made up of so much water that it’s important we keep it replenished, especially when drinking alcohol! Avoid any prolonged dehydration issues by drinking six 6-8-ounce glasses of water a day, as well as one full glass of water between each alcoholic drink.
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Healthy Party Foods

• Remember to orient your cookouts and picnics around healthy foods.  Looking for ideas? Check out our blog post from Memorial Day Weekend featuring some fruity dessert ideas that will surely satisfy your sweet tooth, without going overboard on artificial sweeteners!

Firework Safety

• Lastly, remember to enjoy the most festive of all activities this weekend by promoting safe and responsible use of fireworks.
  • Obey your local laws regarding the use of fireworks
  • Read cautionary labels before lighting them
  • Always have an adult around! (A responsible one…!)
  • Use fireworks in a clear area, and announce when you’re lighting them so people know to stay free of the space
  • Always have a bucket of water or water hose nearby. Juuuust in case!
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Happy Fourth of July!