Live Well, Be Well: Don't Get Burned with Justin Clausen

Spending time outdoors can be great for your health and well-being, but when the temperatures rise and the sun is beating down, staying safe becomes just as important as staying active.

In this episode of Live Well. Be Well., host Kacie Schumann sits down with City of Ames Public Works Director Justin Clausen for part one of a two-part series focused on sun safety. Justin shares a perspective familiar to many Public Works employees whose jobs require them to spend long hours outdoors, even during the hottest days of an Iowa summer.

The conversation explores the challenges outdoor workers face, how employees prepare for hot weather, and the steps they can take to protect themselves from heat and sun exposure. Justin and Kacie also discuss recognizing the warning signs of heat-related illness, responding when someone begins experiencing symptoms, and practical precautions anyone can use when spending extended time outdoors.

Episode Highlights

Working in the Summer HeatFor many Public Works employees, staying inside when temperatures climb isn't an option. Justin discusses some of the unique challenges employees face while working outdoors.

Putting Safety FirstHow do you keep employees safe when the work still needs to get done? Justin talks about the practices used to help employees manage heat and sun exposure on the job.

Recognizing Heat IllnessKnowing the warning signs can make a difference. The conversation covers symptoms outdoor workers should watch for and how employees can respond when someone begins experiencing heat-related illness.

Preparing for Time in the SunJustin shares some of the ways employees protect themselves and discusses items and precautions that can also help anyone planning to spend an extended period outdoors.

Sun Safety Myths and MisconceptionsFrom sunscreen to hot weather, Kacie and Justin discuss some of the common misconceptions surrounding heat and sun safety.

Lessons for All of UsYou don't have to work outdoors for a living to benefit from the practices used by people who do. Whether you're working in the yard, exercising, attending an outdoor event, or simply enjoying a sunny day, planning ahead can help you stay safer in the heat.

This is part one of a two-part series on sun safety. Stay tuned for part two as Live Well. Be Well. continues the conversation about protecting yourself while enjoying the outdoors.

Have a question, topic idea, or someone you would like to hear on the podcast? Send suggestions to Kacie.Schumann@CityofAmes.org