Summer health risks: Beat the heat

We all look forward to warm weather and fun in the sun. When it’s hot outside, be extra careful to prevent overheating. It could lead to:

Heat exhaustion	Heat stroke
When you sweat so much your body loses too much water and salt. Signs include: – Heavy sweating – Cool, moist, pale skin – Headache and nausea – Weakness, dizziness and even fainting – Muscle cramps	When your body temperature rises very quicklyand you can’t cool down. Your organs may start to fail. Signs include: – Red, hot, dry skin – No sweating – Very high blood pressure – Fast pulse – Headache and nausea – Dizziness – Confusion – Fainting

Note: babies, the elderly and people who are sick have a higher risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Seven beat the heat safety tips:

1. Drink water and lots of it — before you start to feel thirsty and throughout the day. Alcohol, caffeine and sugary drinks will dehydrate you. For every one of these you drink, follow it up with at least one glass of water. If you don’t like plain water, try adding a little lemon, lime or even watermelon.
2. Dress for summer. Wear light colored, loose-fitting and breathable clothing. Don’t forget your wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, too.
3. Wear sunscreen — SPF 30 or higher. And reapply after swimming or every 60-90 minutes.
4. Stay indoors when it’s too hot. The hottest part of the day is normally from 12 p.m. -3p.m. Wait until morning or evening (when it’s cooler) to spend time outside. Keep pets indoors and skip walks when it’s hot out, too.
5. Take breaks from the heat to cool off. Shade is your friend. You can also try going indoors for a bit. Take a break about once per hour. If you’re flushed, sweating, etc., wait until symptoms go away before going back outside.
6. Take a fan outside. Oscillating (one that turns side-to-side) is best. And sit right beside it.
7. Never, never leave anyone in the car. Kids and pets should never ever be left in a car. Without AC, the car will heat up at lightning-fast speed. Even just a few minutes in a hot car can lead to sickness or even death. In many states, this is also considered a crime. Don’t take the risk.

Heat stroke is an emergency.

1. Call 911 first for help.
2. Get indoors or to a cool, shady area.
3. Then cool off with cool water — either a cool shower, wet washcloths, or even spraying with a garden hose.

Here are more tips to keep your furry friends safe from the heat.

Older adults are at a higher risk. Get more info here.

Tips for keeping baby cool.