The sounds of summer are here, and although they are quite welcome, they can also be quite LOUD. Think fireworks, outdoor concerts, cars and trucks, lawnmowers — everything the warm weather brings. When you’re ready to get out and enjoy the weather this season, remember to hydrate, bring sunscreen, and protect your hearing health!
Summer sounds that put you at risk for hearing loss include:
1. Fireworks displays
From Memorial Day all the way through Labor Day, summer means fireworks in America. A typical fireworks display produces sound as loud as 125 dB (that’s as loud as a jet taking off!). This noise level is particularly unsafe for young children and infants, who should wear ear protection and view from at least half a football field away. Adults should also wear earplugs.
2. Parades
Parades are a staple of summertime, but also feature a variety of loud sounds — sirens, marching bands, and revving engines are all fun, but super noisy. These may be safe for adults, but children and infants should use ear protection (and it wouldn’t hurt for the rest of us to use earplugs, either).
3. Concerts and sporting events
Music festivals, concerts, and baseball games are another great way to celebrate summertime. However, outdoor venues tend to be louder than indoors, due to higher volumes and noise levels. The average noise levels at these types of events can exceed 90 to 100 dB, which is comparable to listening to music on headphones with the volume turned all the way up. Remember to bring earplugs and protection for the whole family.
4. Convertibles, motorcycles, and speedboats
Getting out in the open air — whether in a car, boat, or motorcycle — is another fun and relaxing way to spend a summer day. However, the roar of the engine and the wind can cause damage to your hearing, with highway or wind noises reaching up to 125 dB. In cases like these, you can’t wear earplugs while driving, but you can check your state’s laws about custom wind-reducing ear protection.
5. Swimming and water
Many people tend to accumulate water in their ear canal during swimming and other water-based activities. Typically this water works its way out naturally, but with some, this fluid becomes trapped and causes a condition called “swimmer’s ear.” This can lead to infection and inflammation and, if not treated properly, can cause pain and hearing loss. Wearing earplugs when swimming or in the water can help prevent this, in both children and adults.
Wondering about YOUR hearing?
Get a head-start on summer and check your hearing right now with our easy online test! And when you’re ready to talk to a hearing care professional, you can find one with our simple hearing clinic locator tool.
Oticon’s diverse product family of hearing solutions offers the opportunity for better hearing health — for everyone. Find out more by contacting a local hearing care professional today.