Summer is the best time of the year. While we soak up the sun's rays and celebrate special occasions like the 4th of July, it’s crucial that we are mindful of protecting our hearing health. Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a prevalent and preventable condition that can result from exposure to loud sounds. According to the CDC, exposure to sound greater than 85 dB can cause permanent damage to your hearing. Many of the festivities that make summer a treat often come with heightened noise risks. Below we explore potential hazards and provide valuable tips for safeguarding your hearing during the summer months while enjoying all the season has to offer.

 

Recognize Common Noise Risks: Summertime activities can expose us to hazardous noise levels, leading to irreversible hearing damage. Here are a few situations where noise risks are heightened:

1. Fireworks Displays: While fireworks are an essential part of summertime celebrations, they produce intense noise levels that can exceed safe limits– up to 150 dB! Standing too close to the launching area or setting off your own fireworks without proper hearing protection can pose a significant risk.
2. Outdoor Concerts and Festivals: Summer is the season for outdoor music festivals and concerts. These events often feature amplified sound systems and energetic crowds, resulting in prolonged exposure to loud music up to 100 dB that can harm your hearing.
3. Sporting Events and Motorized Recreation: From lively stadiums to motorized recreational activities like jet skiing or motorcycles, the sounds of cheering crowds, engines, and machinery can contribute to excessive noise exposure. Outdoor sporting events can top 100 dB, while motorized sports like racecar driving can reach 96 dB in the stands.
4. Noisy Summer Chores: Summer is a time for taking care of our outdoor spaces, but many common chores come with their own noise risks. Lawnmowers and leaf blowers can reach 85 dB, while power tools vary from 90-106 dB. 

 

Utilize Effective Hearing Protection: When it comes to preserving your hearing health, prevention is key. Here are some practical tips to safeguard your ears from damage:

1. Earplugs or Earmuffs: Invest in high-quality earplugs or earmuffs specifically designed for noise reduction. These devices can significantly reduce sound intensity while allowing you to enjoy the summer activities you love. Keep a pair handy for use during fireworks displays, concerts, and any other loud gatherings. Shop earplugs here.
2. Maintain Distance: Keep a safe distance from sources of loud noise whenever possible. Position yourself away from the speakers at concerts or find a quiet spot away from fireworks launching areas. Distance plays a crucial role in reducing the intensity of sound reaching your ears.
3. Create Quiet Zones: If you're hosting a gathering, designate quiet zones where people can retreat and give their ears a break from the noise. These areas can provide a refuge for individuals seeking a respite from the festivities.
4. Recharge with ReBound: As the first ever research-backed home use product designed to support hearing health AFTER noise exposure, ReBound is the perfect addition to your wellness routine this summer. Unwind with ReBound’s cold therapy after a music festival, baseball game, or fireworks show, or add it to your daily routine to combat noise exposure this summer. Shop ReBound here.

Don't let noise exposure dampen your fun this summer. By understanding the potential noise risks associated with summertime activities and following our tips for hearing protection, you can enjoy the season while preserving your hearing health. Remember, safeguarding your ears today will ensure a lifetime of vibrant sounds and joyful experiences. Stay safe, stay mindful, and have a wonderful summer!