Swimming is a fun way to stay active during the summer months, but the intense heat and sunlight can damage your skin and cause dehydration and serious illnesses. When you take a break from the water, it’s essential to take precautions so you can enjoy your time outdoors. Here are three easy ways to stay safe and beat the heat while you’re lounging on the pool deck.

How to Stay Safe on the Pool Deck

1. Wear Sunscreen

It may seem obvious to wear sunscreen on a bright, clear day, but SPF lotions and sprays are just as important when it’s cloudy. Clouds might seem like protection, but some can reflect UV rays and increase your exposure. Safeguard your skin with sunscreen every two hours or whenever you get out of the water, even on an overcast day. 

2. Stay Hydrated

Your body loses water through sweat, so a piping hot day on the pool deck can lead to dehydration. Symptoms of dehydration begin with a headache, dry mouth, thirst, and muscle cramps and can quickly progress to include dizziness, confusion, a rapid heartbeat, and fainting. It’s easy to forget to drink water when you’re splashing in the pool, so set reminders to replenish your fluids throughout the day.

3. Be Aware of Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion occurs when prolonged exposure to intense heat raises a person’s core body temperature. When left untreated, heat exhaustion can lead to heatstroke, a more severe heat-related illness that requires emergency treatment. Signs of heat exhaustion include cool skin and unexplainable goosebumps, a weak and rapid pulse, fatigue, nausea, and low blood pressure. If you experience these symptoms by the pool, relocate to a cooler place, rest, and rehydrate. Call a doctor if your symptoms don’t subside within an hour.

If you want to lounge on a brand new pool deck this summer, contact Captain Cook Pool & Spa in South Kona. Since 1980, their family-owned business has been providing start-to-finish aquatic services for Hawaii homeowners. Their highly trained professionals are known for their attention to detail during pool repairs, refinishing, and energy-saving makeovers, and they’ll build custom pools, spas, and fish ponds anywhere on the Big Island. Call (808) 323-3063 to speak with an associate, or visit them online for more information about their services.