American Heart Association

07/31/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 07/31/2026 21:35

August is Summer Sun Safety Month, National Wellness Month, National Breastfeeding Awareness Month, Family Fun Month and more...

Summer Sun Safety Month highlights heat related safety tips and skin cancer prevention

Extreme heat is rising and so is the risk to your heart. Learn more on why heat is hard on your heart.

If you are active outdoors, consider moving earlier or later in the day, taking shade breaks and bringing water with you. You can also explore additional ways of being active safely in warm weather.
With warmer weather in August, getting enough water is important whether you're playing sports, traveling, or just sitting in the sun. How much water do you need?

Staying active this summer as a family

Be a role model for an active lifestyle. Start moving more yourself and find ways to be active together as a family.

Reduce or limit sedentary screen time, including watching television, playing video games and using a digital device.

Provide kids with opportunities to be active. Give them active toys and games, like bikes, skateboards, roller skates, scooters, jump ropes, balls and sports equipment.

Get familiar with community facilities near you, like pools, recreation centers, bike paths and parks.

The American Heart Association's Recommendations for Physical Activity in Adults and the recommendations in children.

Full infographic text - Heat Stroke vs. Stroke Infographic

Wellness can start with small, realistic choices

Try adding more fruits and vegetables, taking a short walk or setting a steady bedtime to build healthy habits that last. Explore Healthy for Goodfor simple ideas that feel doable.

Spending time in nature can help relieve stress and anxiety, improve your mood, and boost feelings of happiness and well-being. Check out these 10 ways to relax in nature.

copyright Sarah Montoya
National Breastfeeding Month - Learn how breastfeeding can be good for the heart health of mom and baby.


Dietary Recommendations for Healthy Children

National Immunization Awareness Month - Learn what immunizations are important for people with or at risk for cardiovascular disease.

Here's what doctors know about immunizations right now: You still need them | Flu and Pneumonia Prevention

CDC Immunization Schedule

More August Calendar Highlights

Summer Safety Month, National Breastfeeding Month, National Immunization Awareness Month, National Wellness Month, Back to School Month, National Peach Month, Plus take a walk and help save lives - Find a Heart Walk near you!

National Farmers Market Week - Aug. 3-9.

How to Eat More Fruits and Vegetables | Recipes

It's the Dog Days of Summer' and Aug. 26 is National Dog Day, plus adding pets to your family has heart healthy benefits. A Healthy Bond for Life!

August 8 - International Cat Day - Pets can bring companionship and comfort to everyday life. Learn more about how pets can support well-being

August 15 - National Relaxation Day - Give yourself permission to pause in a way that works for you. Explore these stress-management resources for simple ways to support your well-being.

  • August 13 - Women's and Family Day - Caring for a family can look different from day to day. Explore simple tools and tips that can help moms support their well-being and care for kids of all ages.
  • August 15 - National Relaxation Day - Give yourself permission to pause in a way that works for you. Explore these stress-management resources for simple ways to support your well-being.
  • August 31 - National Trail Mix Day Heading into an outdoor adventure? Pack water and a balanced snack with fruits, nuts or whole grains, and explore tips to fuel outdoor activities.

Back-to-school season is a chance to help kids, families, and educators reset healthy routines.

You could be the difference between life and death.

Join our Nation of Lifesavers by learning Hands-Only CPR.

Follow American Heart Association/American Stroke Association news on @HeartNews

American Heart Association published this content on July 31, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on August 01, 2026 at 03:36 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]