Summer Heat Safety

Warm weather means activities and fun under the sun, but everyone must be careful not to let a heat-related illness spoil the day.

Normally, the body has ways of keeping itself cool, by letting heat escape through the skin and by perspiration. If the body does not cool properly or does not cool enough, the victim may suffer a heat-related illness. Anyone can be susceptible although the very young and very old are at greater risk. Heat-related illnesses can become serious or even deadly if unattended.

Please follow the following tips to minimize heat related illnesses.

bullet Dress for the heat.  Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Light colors will reflect away some of the sun’s energy.  It is also a good idea to wear hats or to use an umbrella.
bullet  Drink water. Carry water or juice with you and drink continuously even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine which dehydrate the body.
bullet  Eat small meals and eat more often. Avoid foods that are high in protein which increase metabolic heat. Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician.
bullet Slow down. Avoid strenuous activity. If you must do strenuous activity, do it during the coolest part of the day, which is usually in the morning between 4:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m.
bullet Stay indoors when possible.
bullet Take regular breaks when engaged in physical activity on warm days. Take time out to find a cool place. If you recognize that you, or someone else, is showing the signals of a heat-related illness, stop activity, call for and ambulance, and find a cool place.  
bullet Remember, have fun, but stay cool!