Heat Safety Tips
The following common sense and simple precautions are recommended to avoid heat - related illnesses.
Drink Plenty of Water. Drink Plenty of Water. It is important to drink fluid, especially if you are out in the sun. Water is the best liquid you can use. Fruit juices and iced tea are also good.
Avoid AlcoholAvoid Alcohol. A cold beer may sound inviting but may actually speed up dehydration. Beer, wine and liquor on a hot day can double the risks you face from the heat.
Use a Circulation Fan.Use a Circulation Fan.Even if you have air conditioning, a fan which keep the air moving will let you push up the thermostat several degrees and still be comfortable.
Use Your Basement During the Hottest Hours. Use Your Basement During the Hottest Hours. If you do not have air conditioning but you have a basement, set up housekeeping there for the duration. Basements are usually 10 degrees cooler than upstairs part of your house.
Be A Good Neighbor. Be A Good Neighbor. Check on your neighbors several times during the day. This is especially important if they are old, in poor health, and live alone. One of the early symptoms of heat stroke is loss of consciousness, and these people may not be able to seek help. You may be their only link to early, lifesaving treatment.
Senior Citizens living without air conditioning should spend the hottest hours of the day at air conditioned facilities such as mall, movie theatres, or senior centers.
Take Extra Care of Young Children. Take Extra Care of Young Children. Children are susceptible to heat injury especially those 18 months or younger. Children are most susceptible in any small, closed area such as trailer/mobile homes, closed bedrooms, closed bathrooms, and cars. If you have questions about how to care for your young child, call your doctor.
Eat Light Meals.
Wear Lightweight and Light Colored Cotton Clothing.
Stay in the Shade.
Be Kind to Your Pets. Pets suffer from the heat as much as you do. Provide them with shade and plenty of cool water. Do not leave pets in a car with window closed. This is extremely dangerous.
Illnesses associated with heat include:
- heat cramps
- heat exhaustion
- heat stroke
All of these are serious conditions however, heat stroke is a medical emergency which requires medical attention. Symptoms of heat stroke may include: absence of perspiration, dry hot flushed skin, dilated pupils, early loss of consciousness, body temperature of 105 degrees or higher. Person should be transported to a medical facility at once.
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