Summer Survival Tips for Poison Ivy

Summer fun carries the potential for poison ivy.  Although the plants are not really poisonous, they have a sticky, long-lasting oil called urushiol that can cause an itchy, blistering rash after it touches your skin.  Washing the exposed areas with soap and water within five to ten minutes of contact should prevent a breakout.  But if you don’t get to do it in time, a cool bath with baking soda or oatmeal will rinse the rash-spreading oil.  Afterward, apply calamine lotion to ease the itching.  Have a wonderful July!