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Be sure to stay hydrated. This is huge, and even more so in the summer months. I can’t speak for every theme park, but the Disney parks are very good about helping their guests stay hydrated. While you can’t bring in a filled bottle of water (they prohibit outside beverages), you can bring in an empty bottle and fill it in the park. You can go to virtually any restaurant and ask to fill your bottle. Staying hydrated helps you avoid fatigue and muscle tiredness/soreness, which helps keep your energy up overall. Use the benches. Theme parks, Disney included, are littered with benches. If you need to sit, do it. There really isn’t any reason to continue standing or walking if you don’t need to. Take breaks (and make sure everyone in the group takes them) whenever you feel the need. Sitting on the bench is also a great time to recharge your batteries. Get some water, put on your headphones, and listen to your favorite podcast or tunes for a few minutes. And on that note, don’t forget your headphones. Standing in line or waiting around is an excellent time for podcasts, audiobooks, and music. Not only does it help take your mind out of the crowds, but it can also be relaxing in an otherwise unrelaxing setting. Don’t forget the footwear! This one is easy to overlook. If you know you’re going to be spending a lot of time on your feet during your vacation, get footwear that’s up to the task. I recommended getting a good pair of shoes (or two) a few weeks before the trip. This way, you’ll have time to break them in. You want something
ideal for walking, standing, and overall comfort. Pair them with supportive insoles and you’re ready. After spending hours at Disney or any other theme park, feet are usually the first to get tired, and good shoes can help mitigate that. Chances are, if your feet still feel great after the vacation, the rest of you will, too.
With that, I hope you have a great summer no matter what you have planned. Have fun and stay safe!
Your Summer Storm Survival Guide
GO-TO TIPS FOR FAMILIES
vehicle, or nearby buildings. Store outdoor tools and toys properly and trim trees as needed to prevent wind debris.
Stay calm in the storm. Seek shelter immediately in one of your identified areas. Avoid using landline phones and unplug all appliances, like toasters, TVs, or computers. (Play games, read books, or tell creepy stories to keep the family entertained.) But don’t stand or sit near windows because high winds can knock trees or other debris through the window. Staying away from your sinks and showers is also vital! If lightning strikes your home, it can travel through the water stream and strike you. Follow safety guidelines during a power outage. Don’t panic! Utilize your emergency kit and rely on your flashlights, rather than light candles, which could start a fire. Avoid opening your refrigerator or freezer as to limit how much cold air escapes and never eat meat or dairy products that are 40 degrees F or warmer. You’re also at risk for increased exposure to carbon monoxide if you use a gas stove, generator, or space heater to warm up. Avoid doing this as much as possible. Listen for updates on your weather radio and evacuate when necessary.
June marks the beginning of summer fun, but something far more dangerous lurks — thunderstorm season. Residents in the Midwest and in the South can experience up to 110 thunderstorms each year. ( Fun fact: Florida is often the stormiest and can see anywhere from 80 to more than 100 days of thundering weather.) Yet, no matter how experienced you are at riding out thunderstorms, each one has the potential to be dangerous. Before the clouds roll in this summer, consult this helpful guide. Prepare properly ahead of time. Take a few moments at the beginning of each summer to review the basics. Create or update an emergency kit — include water bottles, blankets, flashlights, and portable chargers. Nonperishable foods, like jerky or granola bars, can also be beneficial. You should also include a weather radio, which will work when the power goes out and can provide updates from the National Weather Service. Then, identify places where you can take shelter, like in your home,
For more ways to prepare for storm season, visit RedCross.org.
2 • www.ptstn.net
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