Top 6 Tips for Protecting Your Hearing at Summer Festivals and Events

Summer is here, and with it comes a host of exciting events: bustling fairs, lively music festivals, and outdoor concerts. While these events are fantastic for creating memories, they can also have a negative impact on your hearing health. It's important to take steps to protect your ears while you enjoy the season's festivities.

Here’s how you can keep your hearing safe and still have a blast.

1. Use Ear Protection

Earplugs are your best friend when it comes to safeguarding your hearing. They come in various types, from foam to high-fidelity plugs designed for music lovers. Foam earplugs are great for general use, reducing noise levels while allowing you to hear conversations. High-fidelity earplugs like these, on the other hand, lower the volume of loud sounds without distorting the music, making them perfect for concerts and festivals.

2. Mind the Volume

At music festivals and concerts, it’s tempting to get as close to the stage as possible. However, the closer you are to the speakers, the higher the risk of hearing damage. Try to position yourself at a reasonable distance from the speakers. Keep in mind that exposure to a sound as loud as a leaf blower (around 90dB) can damage your hearing after just two hours. Concerts, which typically produce about 110dB, can damage your hearing in as little as two minutes. If you feel the music is too loud, trust your instincts and move back.

3. Take Breaks

Giving your ears some rest is crucial. Continuous exposure to loud sounds can lead to permanent hearing damage. Find quiet spots to take breaks during the event. Stepping away from the noise for just a few minutes can help reduce the risk of hearing loss.

4. Stay Hydrated

Believe it or not, staying hydrated can help protect your hearing. Dehydration can reduce blood flow to your ears, increasing the risk of damage from loud noises. Keep a water bottle handy and drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.

5. Monitor Your Hearing

After attending a loud event, pay attention to how your ears feel. Ringing or buzzing sounds, known as tinnitus, can be a sign of hearing damage. If these symptoms persist, it’s important to get your hearing checked by a professional.

6. Educate Your Friends and Family

Spread the word about hearing protection. Encourage your friends and family—especially children!—to use earplugs and take breaks from loud environments. When more people are aware of the risks and preventive measures, everyone benefits.

Take Action: Schedule a Free Hearing Screening

Enjoying summer events doesn't mean you have to compromise your hearing health or sacrifice your social plans. By taking these simple steps, you can protect your ears and enjoy the sounds of summer safely. If you’re concerned about your hearing or just want to ensure everything is in top shape, Beltone is here to help.

At Beltone, we offer free hearing screenings to help you better understand your hearing health. Visit your local Beltone today and take the first step toward a safer summer filled with sound.