8 Things to Do This Summer

Fill your schedule with outdoor activities, from shopping farmers' markets to camping. Just don't forget sunscreen.

1. Connect with your community. One thing the pandemic has taught us is the importance of staying connected, in whatever ways we can. Do you know someone who lives alone or away from family? Take time to call, send flowers, or drop off a basket of fresh produce.
2. Find a farmers' market. Peach season is finally here (hooray!), and you'll find Oregon's finest at a farmers' market. Visit localharvest.org to locate one near you.
3. Inspect your AC. Stay cool all summer by cleaning your AC before the mercury begins to climb. To start, turn off the supply of electricity and slide out the filter, checking for dust and debris. Refer to the owner's manual to determine whether to clean the filter or replace it.
4. Protect your skin. Before you head outside, slather on a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and keep it on hand to reapply every two hours. Avoid lingering in direct sun when UV rays are strongest, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
5. Go camping. Reconnect with nature by taking a camping trip. If you're a novice, start with a short outing and borrow or rent the equipment. REI, Sports Basement, and websites such as lastmingear.com offer everything you need to sleep under the stars. Check park hours and restrictions—and reserve a campsite—before you go.
6. Protect your pet. The Fourth of July is fun for human revelers, but the bright lights and loud noises can frighten animals. Reduce the chance your dog or cat will stress out and run away by keeping them indoors and closing all the windows.
7. Cool your ride. It’s road trip season! Ahead of your next adventure, minimize complications by having your mechanic top off your car’s coolant, check its battery life, and test the AC’s fuses and blower motor.
8. Inspect your deck. Before firing up the barbecue, take an honest look at your deck. Sprinkle water on the wood: If it soaks in instead of beading up, it’s time to reseal, which protects from both rain and sun.