In general, summer is easier on the ears than winter, because many of us spend time outdoors and enjoying leisure activities that tend to be quieter than some winter pursuits.

But don’t be lulled into thinking your hearing is safe. Click here to read about five of the most damaging sources of summer noise exposure, and find out how to protect yourself. Check out this “noise thermometer” for some surprising decibel levels.

If you’re into stock car racing, pictured at right, you can also find out how to get your own Nascar brand earmuffs.

Photo: Onfokus/iStock