With summer's heat bearing down on us more and more as July approaches, it becomes increasingly important to ensure that the clothes you wear don't put you in a position where your health is at risk. For those who wear chest binders, it's easy to run into a variety of health issues that can usually be prevented.

1. Breathe!

Binding restricts your chest cavity, making it more difficult to pull in as much air as you need. Without the correct amount of oxygen, you run the risk of passing out. Stretching can also help this.

2. Wading in water

It's fun and can cool you off, but intense swimming with a binder on can also make you pass out from lack of oxygen. If you're going swimming, try wearing a sports bra or a baggy t-shirt to cover your chest while you're in the water.

3. Alternatives!

If you feel it is too hot outside to wear a binder, try to find another alternative that makes you comfortable. A lot of people feel like wearing two sports bras (or even one sports bra) can help decrease the amount of torso coverage, but you can also try wearing baggier clothing if you can stand to go without a binder.

4. Light clothing!

My wardrobe probably has way too many black shirts, but it's important to note how much heat black clothes can absorb when you're outside! Cover up with a white or other light-colored shirt to reduce the amount of heat your body absorbs.

5. Final, important tips

If you feel like you are about to pass out, please get medical attention immediately! Remember to monitor your health and remove your binder when you start to feel like you're getting too hot. Also, NEVER EVER bind with Ace bandages -- not only can they damage your chest tissue, but they can also harm your lungs and rib cage. Bind safely!