[July 28, 2011]

The Methodist Emergency Care Center Wants You to Test Your Summer Safety IQ

Summer is a great time to enjoy the outdoors, but have you brushed up on safety tips including the warning signs of heart attack? Before your family heads to the beach or your favorite campsite, test your safety IQ with this quiz from the Methodist Emergency Care Center in Houston, Texas.

1. Heat exhaustion is most likely to afflict a) the elderly b) those with high blood pressure c) people who work in the sun d) all of the above.

2. Sunglasses and sunscreen should be worn a) between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. b) every day c) between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. d) on any sunny day.

3. Life jackets can be replaced by a) water wings b) water noodles c) inner tubes d) nothing is as safe as a life jaket.

4. True or false? Shortness of breath is not one of the warning signs of heart attack.

1. D. Heat exhaustion, caused by heat exposure and an insufficient amount of hydration, can affect all of these groups. Warning signs include weakness, heavy sweating, dizziness, vomiting and muscle cramps. If any of these symptoms occur, find a cool place and drink plenty of cold water. If symptoms persist, seek emergency medical facilities.

2. B. Sunglasses and sunscreen should be worn every day to decrease the risk of sunburn and skin cancer. Make sure your sunglasses block 99% to 100% of UVA and UVB radiation. Apply sunscreen of at least SPF 15 year-round and even higher in the summer.

3. D. Life jackets should be worn at all times while on a boat. Children should wear them at all times while playing in and near water. Make sure you swim with a buddy and have a responsible adult watch children near water.

4. False. Shortness of breath is one of the warning signs of heart attack. Breathing difficulties can result from chest discomfort but can also occur without other symptoms.

Following these tips can help you to avoid mishaps and an unplanned trip to emergency medical facilities. For information on the Methodist Emergency Care Center, visit www.methodistkirbyer.com.

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