Hoopfest is almost here! Whether you plan to be on the court, cheering from the sidelines, or ensuring the weekend runs smoothly as a volunteer, it’s important for everyone to stay healthy as we enjoy the beginning of summer—and the heat that comes with it! Here are a few sun safety tips to keep in mind:

1. Stay Hydrated: Staying hydrated is one of the best ways to beat the heat and can help you perform your best. We recommend bringing a reusable water bottle you can fill up throughout the day and drink from as you move between games or take a break on the sidelines. Even if you don’t plan to be on the court breaking a sweat, it’s important to stay hydrated as you cheer on friends and family in the sun or spend the day volunteering. Drinking water is important for everyone during Hoopfest weekend!

2. Wear Sunscreen: We all love a sunny day, but the more time we spend in the sun, the more we’re exposed to the sun’s UV rays. These can be harmful to your health and lead to a bad sunburn... ouch! Make sure to protect your skin by applying sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 every two hours.

3. Locate the Nearest First-Aid Tent: Nobody wants to deal with an injury during Hoopfest, but accidents happen. If you or your teammate needs medical attention, it’s important to know where to go! Once you find the court you're playing on, take a moment to also find the nearest first-aid tent. Knowing where to go if your slam dunk or spin move doesn’t go as planned, or if another player accidentally causes injury to you, can help you get the care you need sooner so you can get back on the court.

4. Know the Signs of Heat-Related Illnesses: Do you know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke? They’re important to know as we spend more time in the sun and can help you recognize and respond quickly if you think someone might be experiencing a heat-related condition. Learn more about the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses at: Symptoms of Heat-Related Illnesses | Extreme Heat | CDC. 

Happy Hoopfest! Spokane Regional Health District is here cheering you on as you gear up for the world's largest 3on3 basketball tournament, and we want to wish everyone a fun and safe weekend! For more sun safety tips, visit: Sun Safety Facts | Skin Cancer | CDC or SRHD’s Extreme Heat webpage.