Balancing Summer Fun and Hearing Safety

Summer is packed with concerts, fireworks, pool parties, and outdoor adventures. While enjoying these activities, it’s important to protect your hearing so you can keep making memories for years to come. Here’s how to strike the right balance:

1. Protect Your Ears at Loud Events

·       Use Earplugs or Earmuffs: Bring disposable foam earplugs or earmuffs to concerts, fireworks shows, sporting events, and festivals. High-fidelity earplugs are great for music events, as they reduce volume without distorting sound quality.

·       Keep Your Distance: Sit or stand farther from speakers, fireworks launch sites, or other loud noise sources. The further you are, the lower the sound intensity.

·       Limit Exposure Time: Take breaks from loud environments. Step away to quieter areas periodically to give your ears a rest.

2. Practice Safe Listening with Headphones

·       Follow the 80/90 Rule: Listen to music at no more than 80% of the maximum volume for no longer than 90 minutes per day.

·       Choose Over-the-Ear Headphones: These are generally safer than earbuds, as they don’t sit directly in the ear canal.

·       Heed Volume Warnings: If your device warns you about high volume, lower it to protect your hearing.

3. Prevent Swimmer’s Ear and Ear Infections

·       Use Water-Resistant Ear Protection: Wear swim plugs or custom-molded earplugs when swimming or engaging in water sports to keep water out and reduce the risk of infection.

·       Dry Ears Thoroughly: After swimming, gently dry your ears with a towel and tilt your head to let water drain out. Avoid inserting cotton swabs or objects into your ear canal.

·       Avoid Swimming in High-Bacteria Water: Check for posted warnings at beaches or pools to minimize infection risk.

4. Maintain Good Ear Hygiene

·       Clean Ears Gently: Use a washcloth to clean the outer ear after swimming or sweating. Never insert objects like cotton swabs into the ear canal.

·       Monitor for Symptoms: Watch for pain, ringing, or fullness in your ears after noisy events or swimming. If symptoms persist, consult a hearing specialist.

5. Special Tips for Hearing Aid Users

·       Keep Devices Dry: Remove hearing aids before swimming or showering. Store them in a dry, cool place, and clean them regularly to prevent moisture damage.

·       Avoid Sprays and Lotions: Apply hair and skin products before putting on hearing aids.

6. Make Hearing Protection Part of Your Summer Routine

·       Pack Earplugs: Keep a pair in your bag or pocket, just like you would sunscreen or sunglasses.

·       Educate Friends and Family: Share hearing safety tips to help others protect their ears too.

By incorporating these simple habits, you can enjoy all the sounds of summer—safely and fully