Minnesota Summer Safety: What Most People Get Wrong

Minnesotans know how to handle the cold.

Layers. Ice scrapers. Winter survival mode.

But heat? That is where we tend to underestimate things.

Extreme heat actually causes more deaths in the U.S. than tornadoes, hurricanes, and flooding combined.

And here in Minnesota, it is one of the leading causes of weather-related deaths.

Summer is meant to be enjoyed. Lakes, long weekends, time outside.

But a few small missteps can turn a great day into a dangerous one.

Here is what to watch for and how to stay safe this summer.

1. Heat Illness: It Escalates Faster Than You Think

It usually starts with something subtle.

Feeling a little off. Maybe dizzy. Maybe more tired than expected.

Then it escalates.

In 2023 alone, hundreds of Minnesotans went to the emergency room for heat-related illness.

Know the difference:

Heat exhaustion signs:

• Heavy sweating
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Muscle cramps

Heat stroke signs:

• Confusion or agitation
• No sweating
• Hot, dry skin
• Loss of consciousness

Why it matters:
Heat stroke is a medical emergency and can happen quickly, especially during outdoor activity.

What to do:
Get out of the heat immediately, hydrate, and seek care if symptoms continue. If someone is confused or loses consciousness, call 911.

2. Lake Safety: It Happens Faster Than You Expect

Minnesota summers mean time on the water.

But drowning does not look like what most people think.

It is often silent. No splashing. No yelling.

Drowning incidents have been increasing across Minnesota in recent years.

Why it matters:
Even strong swimmers can get into trouble quickly.

What to do:

• Wear a life jacket, even if you are a confident swimmer
• Always watch children closely near water
• Avoid alcohol when swimming or boating
• Swim with a buddy whenever possible

3. Sun Exposure: It Adds Up Over Time

You might not burn every time you are outside.

But sun exposure adds up.

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, and UV exposure plays a major role over time.

Why it matters:
Even cloudy days expose your skin to UV rays.

What to do:

• Use SPF 30 or higher daily (check out Stellis Health Medical Skin Care)
• Reapply every two hours when outdoors
• Wear hats and sunglasses
• Plan outdoor time outside peak hours of 10am to 4pm

A Simple Summer Safety Checklist

Heat

• Drink water before you feel thirsty
• Limit activity during peak heat hours
• Check on neighbors and family members
• Never leave children or pets in a parked car

Water

• Wear a life jacket on boats
• Designate an adult to watch kids
• Avoid alcohol near water
• Stay in designated swimming areas

Sun

• SPF 30 or higher daily
• Reapply regularly
• Seek shade when possible