California features the beach, sun, and plenty to do year-round. When the calendar strikes the summer season, the Golden States sees an influx of tourists. Its residents also enjoy everything the state offers.
Whether you find yourself in the northern end at San Francisco or southern in Los Angeles, follow some basic summer safety tips.
You can head to Tahoe for golf and a swim in the lake. You can also drive up and down the 101 to pick out a beach where you can picnic and take in the scenic views.
The State has something for everyone.
Those who want to sleep under the stars have three deserts to pick from including the Mojave.
California is also home to several parks and historic routes such as Route 66.
While you enjoy yourself on the coast, in the desert, or mountains, individuals must take some precautions. The same goes for those who explore the state’s small towns such as Ojai, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and Morro Bay.
Of course, you can also visit the cities including San Diego, Santa Cruz, and San Jose.
Native Californians know that the warm weather months require some effective summer safety strategies. For example, you must wear a helmet while biking on the trails. Even if you bike at the beach, you should protect your head.
It’s also important to protect your skin against the sun’s rays. Simply rub on some SPF.
The following are seven summer safety tips in California.
1. Practice Street Smarts
The data shows that crime increases in the summer. Reasons include:
- Longer days
- Schools are out for the season
- More foot traffic
- Heat catches up to people
Crimes become more violent during these months too. Plus, the Golden State is home to two major cities that have made the news for their spikes in crime.
San Francisco has earned a reputation as one of the most crime-ridden cities in the United States. Common crimes in the Golden City include:
- Property
- Violent
- Theft
Los Angeles made the news when a citizen reporter shot video at the rail tracks in Lincoln Heights. After hearing reports over his scanner, he recorded video of his findings; it went viral.
Moreover, the City of Angels continues experiencing smash and grabs that impact citizens and retailers. Thieves even hit a jewelry store in Beverly Hills.
Given the increase in crime, residents and tourists must practice street smarts.
For example, remain alert of your surroundings and walk in well-lit areas after sunset. Also, avoid showing off your belongings and money.
Depending on your reason for visiting or hanging around, hiring security services from Special Security Services is something to consider.
2. Keep an Eye on the Weather
The northern part of the state sees temperatures that creep into the triple-digits and stay there. Sacramento is no stranger to heatwaves. Los Angeles weather doesn’t reach triple-digits as often. However, the heat remains steady. Therefore, it doesn’t feel like it cools down.
Several communities and local government agencies will put alerts online to remind the public to keep an eye on the weather. Watching the morning news is another way to find out the forecast.
Plus, there’s an app for that.
3. Stay Hydrated
Keeping the weather in mind, remember to stay hydrated.
When you stop for a meal, purchase a large cup of iced water too. Some places give it to you for free with your purchase.
If you spend the day walking, hiking, or surfing, pack a few disposable water bottles or a large reusable one.
Remember, water helps you replenish the water you lose when you sweat.
4. Stay Cool
In addition to staying hydrated, figure out how to stay cool. If you decide to hit the beach, staying cool becomes a challenge unless you pack a beach umbrella.
Easy ways to stay cool include:
- Wear a hat
- Wear light-colored clothing
- Enjoy a popsicle
- Drink iced water
Throughout California, cities offer cooling zones at community centers, libraries, and designated spots. Guests can enjoy the air conditioning and recharge before heading back out.
5. Protect Your Skin
The most common way to protect your skin is to wear SPF protection. In 2022, retailers sell SPF in several types. Pick from lotion, spray, and gel. Then, pick from the face, body, and sports varieties.
If you plan to catch some color, there is sunscreen for that too.
You can also wear long-sleeved shirts with pants. Simply pick the right fabrics.
The best fabrics for the heat are cotton, linen, and rayon. Then, keep the colors light.
6. Wear the Right Gear
Safety in the summer includes protecting your person.
For example, wear a helmet when biking on one of the many trails. If you decide to go skateboarding, wear knee and elbow pads too.
When enjoying the mountains, don’t forget your hiking boots. Plus, wear clothing made from materials that wick away moisture. Denim is not a good idea; if you get wet or sweat a lot, the material will weigh you down.
7. Limit Outdoor Exercise
Part of the attraction to California is all the things people can do outside, year-round. Other states see feet of snow for several months. If it’s not snowing, they experience rain half of the year.
Then, there are the geographic areas that develop ice on the roads.
As wonderful as the warmth from the sun feels, individuals must limit their exposure to the rays. After all, people remain concerned about the UV rays. The possibility of heat exhaustion is another.
When the temperatures rise to 90 degrees and above, consider staying indoors from noon to 3 pm.
Yoga on the beach, hiking the trails, and sightseeing in California is great. If you participate in them in the early morning or late afternoon, you can enjoy them and beat the sun.
Conclusion
Spending the summer in California affords residents and tourists plenty of fun in the sun. There is no shortage of things to do outdoors and indoors. To keep the fun going, practice some summer safety recommendations. Nothing ruins the next day more than a sunburn. Therefore, protect your skin, stay hydrated and cool.
