A perfect place for shadeTriple digit temperature days make it a challenge to “beat the heat” but there are ways to protect ourselves from the heat. As I walked the park yesterday watching out for our team members, I quickly realized that many of our park guests could use some friendly reminders about how to protect themselves from the heat. Being on vacation, filled with excitement and ready to go, sometimes we quickly forget how the sun can zap the energy right out of us until it is too late.
When I come out to the park with my family or out of town guests there are a few things we do to help ensure everyone in our party steers clear of any heat exhaustion. Soaking in sunscreen definitely a must before we even leave our house. Our family's favorite is Neutrogena and our dermatologist recommended the one with Helioplex SPF 45 and for our faces Neutrogena's Face Shield SPF 70. Because my step-daughter loves the Lost Lagoon and water rides, I have to remember to throw the sunscreen in my survival bag so we can re-apply every couple of hours. Water is definitely our best friend throughout the day. It could be a water bottle, which can be purchased at any restaurant or drink location, or a visit to one of the public water fountains. Public water fountains are located at each of the restroom locations throughout the park.
I also try to map out our day by sprinkling in a visit to an air conditioned facility or exhibit. It could be planning to eat lunch (remembering to eat is definitely a must) in one of our restaurants, a visit to the Penguin Encounter, Sharks/Coral Reef , Boardwalk Game Center or the SeaStar Theater to catch a show. It gives us an opportunity to cool down in the air condition and grab some water.
Despite everyone's energy and enthusiasm, frequent shade breaks also help. A great place is across from Ski Lake near Journey to Atlantis. There are large umbrellas in the auxiliary area which provide great shade coverage.
Once we head down to Lost Lagoon it is sunscreen time again and we also have our step-daughter get out of the water for 15 minutes each hour. Those 15 minutes allow her to get out of the sun, get more sunscreen and more water.
If as a park guest you do begin to not feel well or begin to show signs of heat stress please visit one of our First Aid stations throughout the park. They are noted on a park map using the white cross in a red circle sign. You can always ask a park team member to contact the first aid station and the EMT will make their way to you.
I hope you have a great and safe time in the park and remember to “beat the heat.”
Gotta Love It!
EDITOR'S BONUS: Here is a great podcast interviewing a dermatologist that describes how much sunscreen you should apply - probably a lot more than you would think.
