Summer is a season for outdoor fun including concerts, fireworks, swimming, and yard work. But did you know these favorite pastimes can put your hearing at risk? From loud noise exposure to ear infections, summer brings several hazards for your ears. The good news? A few simple steps can help you enjoy the season without compromising your hearing health.
Hearing protection tips for outdoor concerts and festivals
Outdoor concerts and music festivals often exceed 90 decibels—levels that can cause permanent hearing damage with prolonged exposure. Even if you’re outside, loud music can still affect your inner ear over time.
Tip: Invest in high-fidelity earplugs that reduce volume without muffling the sound. These are ideal for music lovers of all ages. Children, whose ears are more sensitive, benefit from noise-reducing earmuffs to stay safe while enjoying the show.
Preventing hearing damage from fireworks noise
Fireworks may be a summer favorite, but they can reach sound levels up to 155 decibels, far above what is safe for human ears. Even short bursts of such loud sounds can cause immediate hearing loss.
Tip: Attend professional fireworks displays and maintain a safe viewing distance. Leave backyard fireworks to the experts, and always use hearing protection when close to explosive noises.
How to protect your ears from lawn mower noise
Routine yard work like mowing the lawn or using a leaf blower can expose you to noise levels between 85 and 100 decibels. Regular exposure to this volume, especially without protection, can gradually reduce your hearing ability.
Tip: Use foam earplugs or over-the-ear earmuffs every time you use power equipment. Just like professionals, homeowners can avoid noise-induced hearing loss by wearing protection during outdoor chores.
Swimmer’s ear prevention tips
Swimming in pools, lakes, or oceans increases the risk of swimmer’s ear, an outer ear canal infection caused by trapped moisture and bacteria. If left untreated, it can lead to discomfort and temporary hearing loss.
Tip: Wear waterproof earplugs made for swimmers and dry your ears thoroughly after being in the water. Avoid inserting cotton swabs, which can push bacteria deeper into the canal.
Summer water sports and hearing loss
Boating, jet skiing, and other watercraft activities are thrilling but noisy. Engine sounds often surpass 100 decibels, especially at high speeds or on rough waters, putting your ears in danger.
Tip: Use disposable or reusable earplugs to reduce the impact of loud engine noise. Choose models that stay secure during movement and don’t interfere with communication or safety signals.
Hearing loss prevention at auto racing events
Auto racing is a high-octane summer thrill, but racetracks can generate noise over 120 decibels, enough to cause immediate ear damage without protection.
Tip: Whether you’re in the grandstand or pit area, wear noise-reducing earplugs or earmuffs. This allows you to fully enjoy the event without harming your hearing.
Why summer hearing protection matters
Noise-induced hearing loss is permanent, but preventable. By taking smart precautions during summer’s loudest events and activities, you can enjoy every sound of the season without regret. Protect your hearing with earplugs, earmuffs, or swim-specific gear whenever appropriate.
If you’re experiencing symptoms like ringing in the ears, difficulty hearing conversations, or muffled sounds, it may be time to see a hearing specialist. Early detection can help manage hearing loss before it worsens.
Schedule an appointment with a local hearing specialist if you suspect any changes in your hearing this summer.
