Essential Summer Safety Tips for Newcomers in Ontario
Summer is an exciting time for Canadians. The days are longer, parks are full of people, and festivals are everywhere. If you’re new to Canada, it’s the perfect time to explore your new community. Here are some simple tips to help you and your family enjoy a safe and healthy summer.
1. Check the UV Index Before Going Outside
In Ontario, the UV Index tells you how strong the sun’s rays are each day. A higher UV Index means your skin can burn more quickly, even on cloudy days.
Tip: Use your weather app to check the UV Index before going outdoors. If the UV Index is 3 or higher, it’s a good idea to protect your skin.
Check the daily UV Index and weather forecasts from Environment and Climate Change Canada Weather.
2. Wear Sunscreen Correctly
Sunscreen helps protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and apply it:
- About 15–30 minutes before going outside
- To all exposed skin, including your ears, neck, and the tops of your feet
- Every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating
Don’t forget to check the expiry date on your sunscreen before using it.
3. Stay Hydrated
Hot weather increases your risk of dehydration. Drink water regularly throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
If you’re spending several hours outdoors:
- Carry a reusable water bottle
- Take water breaks often
- Limit sugary drinks and alcohol, which can increase dehydration
Young children and older adults may not recognize the signs of dehydration as quickly, so encourage them to drink water regularly.
4. Know the Signs of Heat-Related Illness
Ontario sometimes experiences heat warnings during the summer. Hot and humid weather can increase the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Watch for symptoms like:
- Heavy sweating
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Nausea
- Muscle cramps
- Feeling weak or unusually tired
Read about heat warnings and heat-related illness sourced from the Government of Ontario
5. Find Shade During the Hottest Part of the Day
The sun is usually strongest between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. If possible:
- Stay in the shade
- Take breaks indoors in air-conditioned spaces
- Visit community centres or public libraries if you need a cool place to rest
Planning outdoor activities earlier in the morning or later in the evening can also help you avoid peak heat.
6. Protect Children from the Sun
Children can become overheated more quickly than adults. When spending time outdoors, make sure to:
- Dress children in lightweight clothing and hats.
- Apply sunscreen regularly if they are over six months old.
- Encourage frequent water breaks.
- Never leave a child alone in a parked vehicle, even for a few minutes.
7. Be Prepared for Bugs
Summer in Ontario also means mosquitoes and ticks are more active. To help protect yourself:
- Use insect repellent when needed.
- Wear long sleeves and long pants when walking in wooded or grassy areas.
- Check yourself, your children, and your pets for ticks after spending time outdoors.
Some ticks can carry Lyme disease, so removing a tick promptly is important.
8. Stay Safe Around Water
Ontario has thousands of lakes, beaches, and swimming pools. Whether you’re visiting a beach or a community pool:
- Never leave children unattended near water.
- Wear a properly fitted life jacket when boating or participating in water sports.
- Swim only in designated swimming areas when possible.
- Follow posted safety signs and lifeguard instructions.
Water is a wonderful way to cool off—but safety should always come first.
Check the Ontario Parks website or the City of Toronto website to see the beach water quality.
Ontario summers are full of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, meet new people, and explore your new community. By taking a few simple precautions, you can stay safe while making the most of the season.
Pack your water bottle, wear your sunscreen, check the UV Index, and don’t forget your sunglasses, hat or umbrella before heading outside. A little preparation goes a long way in helping you and your family enjoy a fun, healthy, and memorable summer in Ontario.
Are you new to Ontario? Take advantage of our information and referral service for trusted settlement resources in the Greater Toronto Area and Ontario.
