Break out the shorts and flip-flops, it's summer time, and you all know what that means. It's HOT.

And by hot I mean upward of 95F most days. In some places the summer temperatures are hot enough to melt the roads - I'm looking at you Texas. But it's vacation time and that means days spent outside, on the pool deck, playing soccer or tennis or hide-and-seek, or hiking a 14,000 ft mountain. Now, before you go and enjoy the sunshine, there are a few things to remember.

1. The sun can cause cancer.

And by this I mean that over exposure to UV rays, which the sun emits, can lead to various forms of skin cancer. It's best to plan outdoor activities early in the morning or later in the afternoon after the sun has peaked. Even on cloudy days when you think chances of getting sunburned are low, it's still best to put on some sunscreen with a sun protection factor of SPF 15 at the least. I personally use SPF 70, but most people aren't as ghostly pale as I am.

2. On a similar note, wear sunglasses.

Even cheap dollar store sunglasses will provide at least a little protection for your sensitive eyes. Best thing you can do to protect the things that help you see is get them a quality pair of UV-filtering sunglasses. You can thank me later.

3. Drink a shit-ton of water.

It's an easy thing to forget while having fun, but drinking the proper amount of water will keep you healthy while you enjoy the outdoors. Dehydration is a real threat in the summer time so try your best to avoid drinks with caffeine, sugar, and alcohol as they can all suck the moisture from your body. Best make sure you're drinking about eight cups a day and keep more on hand.

4. If it's remotely too hot for you, it's too hot for your pets.

I don't remember where I learned this, but if you're about to take your dog for a walk test the temperature of the sidewalks/ pavement with the back of your hand first. If you cant hold the back of your hand to the pavement for more than five seconds or it feels like you've touched something straight from the oven, it's too hot for your dog's paws. Avoid scorching your pet's paws by walking them early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are cooler. You and your pet will have a more enjoyable walk.

5. And lastly... don't leave your pets in the car.

Don't leave them in the car with a bowl of water, don't leave them in the car in the shade, don't leave them in the car with the windows rolled down. Don't. Leave. Them. In. The. Car. Period. They could die. The Humane Society of the United States has some good tips on What To Do If You See A Pet In A Parked Car.

Stay cool out there this summer.

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