Summer is a busy time for urgent care centers. Learn how you can avoid some of the most common summer injuries while you have your fun in the sun.

Summer is one of the most exciting times of the year! With vacations, backyard barbecues, fireworks shows and more to look forward to, there’s lots of fun to be had during the warm summer months. But while you’re having a blast with your family and friends, it’s important to be aware of the safety risks around you. What starts as fun and games could send you rushing to your local urgent care center within minutes. Here are the top summer safety concerns you should be looking out for:

Cuts and Burns

Urgent care centers often see an increase in grilling-related injuries during the summer months, including cuts, burns and even smoke inhalation injuries. While grilling out with family and friends, remember these helpful grilling safety tips:

• Always grill in a well-ventilated area and NEVER use an outdoor grill indoors.
• Be careful when lighting the fire and lifting the lid to avoid a blast of fire or smoke.
• Use tongs, spatulas or other grilling tools to keep your hands and arms farther from the flames.
• Practice knife safety while handling any sharp blades, and try to avoid distractions while cutting your food.

If you experience a non-life-threatening, but serious, cut or burn, head to AFC Urgent Care Stoneham for immediate treatment.

Broken Bones

With the weather warming up, there’s more opportunity for outdoor fun and adventure! But an increase in outdoor time also means there are more chances to get hurt. AFC Urgent Care Stoneham can treat non-life-threatening broken bones and fractures, and with much shorter wait times than at an ER, you’ll be back on your feet in no time. To avoid a broken bone, remember to:

• Avoid unnecessary danger such as climbing high rocks, trees or man-made structures without protection.
• Always use the recommended safety equipment while hiking, rafting, climbing or participating in other outdoor adventure activities.
• Follow all posted safety warnings and instructions at the pool, trail, lake or other outdoor recreation areas.

Sunburn

Most sunburns are uncomfortable, but will disappear after a few days. However, if you have been in the sun without sun protections for an extended period of time, it is possible to experience a more severe sunburn. Harmful UV rays are no laughing matter, and if your sunburn is showing signs of blistering or if you’re in severe pain, it’s time to seek medical help for your condition. To avoid a nasty sunburn ruining your summer fun, remember to:

• Wear sunscreen, even if it’s cloudy, and reapply every two hours.
• Take some time in the shade when possible, and bring things like hats and umbrellas to make your own shade where none exists.
• Consider sun-protective clothing, hats and sunglasses when heading outdoors.

Dehydration

With so much summer fun going on, it can sometimes be easy to forget to drink enough water. And with high outdoor temperatures, you’ll be needing to hydrate more than ever during any kind of outdoor activity. Try to stay hydrated by:

• Remembering to bring water with you wherever you go.
• Take frequent water breaks when exercising or while outdoors.
• Take a break in the shade if you notice you are hot and sweaty.
• Consider scheduling your outdoor activities for the early morning or evening, when the day is cooler, and enjoying the air conditioning during the hottest parts of the day.

It’s time to seek medical help for your dehydration if you are dizzy or faint, lose consciousness, feel confused or disoriented or exhibit other symptoms of heat injury.

Don’t let your summer fun turn sour with a trip to urgent care. Use these tips to stay safe and injury-free during all your summertime activities. But if you do need medical attention, AFC Urgent Care Stoneham is here to help, seven days a week with no appointment necessary. Get the care you need, when you need it — and at a fraction of the cost and wait time of an emergency room treatment.