As summer draws nearer to a close, it is just getting hotter and hotter outside! Many people love to visit the parks during this time of year, but it is absolutely necessary to take precautions so that you do not experience heat exhaustion or sun poisoning. First, you need to make sure to drink lots and lots of water. You may think that you have consumed enough, but you should drink some more! Many people try to hydrate themselves with iced coffee or soft drinks, but these beverages only make you more dehydrated, which leads to heat related problems.
As a cast member, I am outside many days for 10 or 11 hours, so I always drink bottles and bottles of water as well as some sort of low sugar/low calorie sports beverage with my lunch. It is also important to protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunscreen as well as a hat. I always apply sunscreen every morning as well as wear a large straw hat to block the harsh rays of the sun. If you can avoid being outside during the hotter parts of the day, then do so. If you are on vacation, spend some time relaxing in your room or even at the pool. However, if you do go for a dip, make sure to re-apply sunscreen frequently. I have also found that shirts made out of fabric that is created specifically to keep you cool can also help. Many of these shirts are also infused with UV protection to help with the sun.
Carrying a parasol or an umbrella can also help shield you from the sun. Some of the most impacted people during the summer are young children and the elderly or just anyone who is not used to the intense Florida heat. Don’t push yourself to keep moving if you are starting to feel sick or your head is starting to hurt. At that point, you have become too dehydrated, and it is time to take a break. Many people don’t realize it until it is too late, and they are already suffering from heat exhaustion or sunstroke. With this in mind, any Disney restaurant, be it quick service or table service will be happy to give cups of ice water free of charge. All you have to do is ask!
If you start to feel the effects from the heat, make sure to ask for help from a cast member; anyone who works at Disney will be more than happy to help you, and they can direct you to a cool place to sit. With temperatures soaring well over 100 degrees lately, I cannot stress how important it is to stay well hydrated and protected from the sun! Until next time, have a magical day, and keep moving forward!
