5 Things That Can Totally Wreck Your Summer in Lubbock (If You’re Not Careful)

Summer is in full swing here on the South Plains, and while it’s a time for fun in the sun, grilling, swimming, and maybe a cold beverage or two—there are some things that can totally ruin your good time if you’re not careful.

Here are 5 summertime dangers that are more common (and more serious) than you might think:

1. Insect Bites

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Sure, mosquitos are annoying, but they’re also dangerous. These little bloodsuckers—and their cousin, the tick—can carry diseases like Zika and Lyme disease. Fun fact: Lyme disease got its name from Lyme, Connecticut, where it was first discovered in the U.S. back in the '70s. It’s now exploding in parts of the country. Moral of the story? Use bug spray!

2. Dehydration & Heatstroke

It gets hot out here. Like melt-your-face hot. And believe it or not, heat kills more people every year than tornadoes, hurricanes, floods, or cold weather—over 1,200 lives lost annually. So don’t mess around. Hydrate often and take breaks in the shade or A/C. Your body will thank you.

3. Sunburns

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We all love a golden tan, but sunburns are no joke. Too much UV exposure raises your risk of skin cancer, and it doesn’t take long to do damage. So lather up with sunscreen before heading out, even if it’s cloudy. Yes, really.

4. Drowning

More than 4,000 people drown every year—and about 20% of them are kids under 14. Keep an eye on your kids, and consider getting them a neon swimsuit to make them more visible in the water. Lifeguards have said it really helps.

5. Food Poisoning

Backyard barbecues are awesome…unless someone ends up hugging a toilet. Warmer temps plus undercooked meat and poor food handling = trouble. Always separate raw meats from other foods, use bleach to clean surfaces, and make sure whoever’s manning the grill isn’t too buzzed to focus.

READ MORE: Lubbock PSA: Don't Drink and Swim This Summer—Here's Why

Bottom line: enjoy your summer, but don’t let these five things ruin it. Stay smart, stay safe, and keep it cool, Lubbock.