As the weather warms up and we spend more time outdoors, it’s important to be ready for the season’s most common health risks. From dehydration and insect bites to sun safety and packing the right summer first aid kit, taking a few simple steps can help you enjoy the summer months safely. 

Whether you’re travelling or spending time closer to home, your GP at Kardinia Health can help you prepare with personalised advice and practical support. 

Recognising and preventing dehydration

Long days in the sun and increased physical activity can quickly lead to dehydration, especially if you’re not drinking enough water. During summer, your body heats up faster than it does in cooler months, making hydration a key part of your daily routine. 

Early signs of dehydration include thirst, dry mouth, and fatigue. If left untreated, dehydration can lead to more serious conditions such as heat exhaustion or heatstroke. 

To stay hydrated: 

• Aim to drink at least two litres of water a day. 
• Add electrolytes if you’ve been sweating a lot. 
• Eat water-rich foods like fruit. 
• Avoid dehydrating drinks like coffee, soft drinks and alcohol 

Sun safety: protect your skin every day 

Protecting your skin from UV exposure is one of the most important summer first aid tips. Staying sun safe helps reduce your risk of skin cancer and plays a key role in supporting your long-term health. 

Follow these five simple steps from the Cancer Council: 

• Slip on protective clothing 
• Slop on broad-spectrum, water-resistant SPF30+ (or higher) sunscreen every two hours 
• Slap on a broad-brimmed hat 
• Seek shade wherever possible 
• Slide on sunglasses  

Try to avoid being in direct sunlight between 10am and 3pm or 11am to 4pm during daylight savings, when UV levels are highest. 

Avoiding insect bites and stings 

Insects are more active in summer, and while most bites are harmless, some can cause serious reactions or transmit disease. It’s a good idea to take extra precautions if you’re spending time outdoors, especially near water or in bushy areas. 

Tips to prevent insect bites include: 

• Wear long sleeves and pants when practical 
• Skip scented perfumes and soaps 
• Use insect repellent regularly 

Consider adding mosquito spray and a snake bite bandage to your summer first aid kit, particularly if you’ll be camping or hiking. Australia sees over 3,000 snake bites a year. Carrying a snake bite first aid kit and knowing how to use it can be lifesaving. 

What to keep in your summer first aid kit

Whether you’re at home or on the road, a well-stocked first aid kit is a must. A pre-made kit is a great start, but you may need to add items suited to summer activities. 

Recommended additions include: 

• Electrolyte sachets 
• SPF30+ sunscreen (or higher) 
• Insect repellent 
• Aloe vera gel for minor burns 
• Snake bite bandage and instructions 
• Tweezers for removing splinters or stingers 
• Jellyfish sting treatment (if swimming in affected areas) 
• A list of emergency contact numbers and any personal medications 

Our GPs can advise you on what to include based on your health needs and holiday plans. 

Supporting your summer health at Kardinia Health

If you’re unsure what to pack in your kit or how to handle common summer health concerns, our team is here to help. As a trusted Geelong Medical Centre, we provide personalised advice and care for all ages. Whether you’re planning a road trip, heading to the beach, or staying local, a quick check-in with your GP can give you peace of mind for the season ahead. 

Kardinia Health will continue to offer accessible holiday medical care during our usual opening hours, with some changes across public holidays. 

Public Holiday Closures: 

• Christmas Day (25 December) 
• Boxing Day (26 December) 
• New Year’s Day (1 January) 

Regular hours: 

• Monday – Friday: 8:00am – 5:00pm 
• Saturday: 9:00am – 1:00pm 
• Sunday & Public Holidays: Closed 

Pharmacy hours: 

• Monday – Friday: 8:30am – 6:00pm 
• Saturday: 9:00am – 1:00pm 
• Sunday & Public Holidays: Closed 

Pathology: 

• Monday – Friday: 8:00am – 3:00pm 
• Closed weekends and public holidays 

To make an appointment, contact our friendly reception team on (03) 5202 9333 or head online to book.