You did it, Bucs! You made it to the end of the semester. Whether you’re wrapping up your first year of college or your last, it’s the end of another great year. As we head into the summer months, I encourage you to have fun and let loose. You survived another year of college, and that’s something to be proud of. However, don’t let fun get in the way of keeping yourself safe and healthy.
The two biggest things I plead you to remember this summer are sunscreen and water. Heat-related illnesses and skin cancer are serious matters. According to the Tennessee Department of Health (TDH), 15% of emergency department visits statewide associated with heat-related illness were between ages 20 and 29 (7% were 10-19 year olds). Heat-related illness can present in a few forms: heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat cramps, sunburn, and heat rash. If you want more info on heat-related afflictions and how to spot them, visit https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/heat-stress/about/illnesses.html.
According to the CDC, skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in the U.S. If you’re planning to tan this summer, consider using sunscreen instead of tanning lotions to protect your skin from ultraviolet (UV) rays that can lead to premature aging and skin cancer. Self-tanning is the only way to tan safely, avoiding the UV rays found in the sun and tanning beds. Consider sunscreen if you plan to do sports or any other outside activities like gardening or running, too. Reapply every two hours, and you’re good to go!
Now let’s talk about fireworks. This year marks America’s 250th (or semiquincentennial) anniversary, which, in simple terms, means go big or go home. That does not mean go big and go to the emergency room. According to the U.S. Product Safety Commission, in 2024, Tennessee fire departments responded to 195 fires due to fireworks, which added up to $1.5 million in direct property damage. There were also an estimated 14,700 fireworks-related injuries in the U.S. that same year. While fireworks are legal in Tennessee, exact rules vary by county and city.
No matter where you’ll be celebrating the Fourth of July, I encourage you to watch fireworks shows put on by your local city or county. Don’t risk losing a finger, hand, or even worse injuries just because you want to do fireworks in your backyard. If you’re really eager to have fireworks at home, stick to sparklers.
No matter your plans this summer, Bucs, have fun and stay safe. Summer only comes once a year.
