Top 10 summer activities that are dangerous to your hearing Summer can bring a host of personal safety issues. We protect ourselves from the heat by seeking shade and staying hydrated. We protect ourselves from the sun by being vigilant about wearing sunscreen. We protect ourselves from mosquitoes by slathering on bug repellent. But as we go about our summer activities, how many of us think about protecting our hearing? The fact is that many of the activities we enjoy once the mercury rises can endanger our hearing if we are not careful. With that in mind, here are 10 summer activities that can cause hearing damage. Some of them might surprise you. Car races Though millions of dedicated racing enthusiasts can explain their differences, Formula One, NASCAR, Indy car and stock car races have one major commonality: they are dangerously loud. Most races average between 90 and 115 dB depending on the types of cars, acoustics of the track space and viewing location. Sound levels can reach as high as 130 dB, the human hearing threshold for pain. This noise level puts spectators at real risk for hearing damage and tinnitus. If you are heading to the track, bring your earplugs. They won't detract from your experience but they will save your hearing down the road. Outdoor concerts Summer is an ideal time to take in an outdoor concert or music festival. A Healthy Hearing Survey revealed that most people are unlikely to think about protecting their hearing while enjoying the show. But here is why you...