Don't let the summer heat get the best of you! Heat-related illnesses are preventable. Learn the symptoms and what to do if you or a loved one shows signs of having a heat-related illness.
Below is a guide on what to do if you or someone you know has a heat-related illness. Ideally, you want to avoid it altogether by following these 3 simple rules when out in the heat:
1. STAY COOL
- Wear Appropriate Clothing
- Stay Cool Indoors
- Schedule Outdoor Activities Carefully
- Pace Yourself
- Wear Sunscreen
- Do Not Leave Children in Cars
- Avoid Hot and Heavy Meals
2. STAY HYDRATED
- Drink Plenty of Fluids (If your doctor limits the amount you drink or has you on water pills, ask how much you should drink while the weather is hot.)
- Stay away from very sugary or alcoholic drinks
- Replace Salt and Minerals
- Keep Your Pets Hydrated
3. STAY INFORMED
- Check your local news for extreme heat alerts and safety tips and to learn about any cooling shelters in your area.
- Know the Signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses and how to treat them (See below)
- Use a Buddy System: When working in the heat, monitor the condition of your co-workers and have someone do the same for you. Heat-induced illness can cause a person to become confused or lose consciousness. If you are 65 years of age or older, have a friend or relative call to check on you twice a day during a heat wave. If you know someone in this age group, check on them at least twice a day.
- Monitor Those at High Risk
- Infants and young children
- People 65 years of age or older
- People who are overweight
- People who overexert during work or exercise
- People who are physically ill, especially with heart disease or high blood pressure, or who take certain medications, such as for depression, insomnia, or poor circulation