Safeguard Your Ears This Summer

summer fun

Summer is here, and it’s time to soak up the sun and embrace the excitement of the season. From beach parties and music festivals to backyard barbecues and water sports, the options for fun seem endless. But amidst all the noise and revelry, it’s crucial to protect your precious hearing. Don’t worry, we’ve got your back! In this blog, we’ll dive into some tips on how to safeguard your ears this summer while still rocking those awesome, noisy summer activities.

How Loud Is It Really?

Let’s talk numbers for a moment to highlight just how loud some of these summer activities can get. Concerts and music festivals can reach ear-piercing levels of up to 120 decibels (dB), comparable to a jet engine taking off! Fireworks can explode with a bang of around 150 dB, equivalent to standing next to a roaring freight train. Motorized water sports, like jet skis or speedboats, can generate noise levels of up to 100 dB, akin to the sound of a chainsaw. It’s important to realize that prolonged exposure to sounds above 85 dB can cause irreversible damage to your hearing. So, understanding the intensity of these noises emphasizes the importance of taking precautions to protect your ears during these exciting summer activities.

noise meter

5 Tips to Protect Your Ears and Still Have Fun

1. Gear up with hearing protectors.

Before diving headfirst into those ear-splitting activities, grab some reliable hearing protection. Earplugs (custom or universal foam ones) and earmuffs are your trusty sidekicks when it comes to turning down the volume. Pop those plugs in your ears or put on those muffs, and you’ll be ready to enjoy the festivities without worrying about hearing damage.

2. Keep a safe distance:

When attending concerts, music festivals, or any noisy events, remember to keep a safe distance. Position yourself away from the booming speakers and sound sources. By maintaining some distance, you can still groove to the tunes without risking a hearing meltdown.

3. Take breaks for ear relief:

Even the most enthusiastic partygoers need a break once in a while. So, when you’re in the midst of a loud event, take some time to relax and give your ears a breather. Find a quiet spot away from the noise where you can unwind, chat with friends, and let your ears recover. Your hearing will thank you later.

4. Control the volume:

Whether you’re jamming out with your headphones or cruising in your car, it’s important to keep the volume in check. Be mindful of your volume levels, and avoid blasting your music at ear-shattering levels. Remember, it’s better to enjoy the music at a moderate volume than risk damaging your hearing. A good rule of thumb is keep the volume below 60% of its full capacity.

5. Seek some peaceful alternatives:

While noisy activities are a blast, sometimes it’s nice to switch things up and seek out quieter alternatives. Take a break from the loudness and explore serene activities. How about a peaceful nature hike, a relaxing picnic in the park, or perhaps some gentle yoga? Embrace the tranquillity and give your ears a chance to rejuvenate while still savouring the joys of summer.

Summer is the season to have a blast, but it’s essential to protect your hearing while you’re at it. With a bit of knowledge and some practical precautions, you can enjoy those thrilling summer activities without compromising your auditory health. So, gear up with hearing protection, maintain a safe distance, take breaks, control the volume, and explore some peaceful alternatives. Embrace the fun while safeguarding your ears for a summer filled with fantastic memories and intact hearing. Stay safe and enjoy the season to the fullest!

About Author: Taylor Wilson

taylor@theeardepot.com

Taylor Wilson H.I.D I was born and raised in the Peterborough area, so I’m thrilled to be back in town serving my community. I started with The Ear Depot over 5 years ago as a Communications Disorders Assistant (CDA) and I'm now almost completed my training as a Hearing Instrument Dispenser. As someone who enjoys a good cup of coffee and chat with my family or friends, I understand the importance of being able to hear and understand the conversation going on around you in any environment. I’m looking forward to serving you to ensure you’re hearing the best you can be.