Ear Protection During the Summer Season

Summer invites outdoor fun—games in the yard, long days at the beach, and the excitement of concerts and firework displays. While it’s a season packed with memorable experiences, it's also one when loud noises and environmental factors can take a serious toll on your hearing.

Events like sporting matches and live music performances often reach sound levels high enough to cause permanent hearing damage. Fireworks, in particular, can exceed safe noise thresholds by a wide margin, especially when viewed up close. If you use hearing aids, increased heat and humidity add another layer of difficulty that may affect their performance.

Taking preventive steps is essential. Use earplugs when attending noisy gatherings, limit the amount of time you spend in loud environments, and position yourself away from speakers or sources of sound when possible.

At home, summer chores like lawn mowing or DIY work can expose you to loud machinery. Protect your ears by wearing earmuffs designed for noise reduction. If you go swimming, remember to dry your ears thoroughly afterward to prevent infections like swimmer’s ear.

Hearing aid users should establish a nightly cleaning and drying routine to combat the effects of summer heat and moisture. For activities around water, invest in protective covers that repel moisture and guard against exposure. Also, avoid leaving your hearing aids in direct sunlight for prolonged periods, which may lead to warping or malfunction. Summer is a time to unwind and enjoy life. With a few simple precautions, you can make the most of the season while keeping your hearing—and hearing devices—safe and sound.