As the heat and humidity rises, so does the risk of heat
exhaustion and heat stroke. Prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures can be a
real health threat, especially for older people and young children.
How can you avoid heat-related illnesses?
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Wear light-weight, light colored clothing made
of breathable material, like cotton.
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Cover up when you can with long-sleeved shirts and
pants.
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Hats are fine, but remember baseball caps won’t protect your ears and neck from the sun.
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Always use a broad spectrum sunscreen with a
minimum of 30 SPF, even when it is cloudy. Reapply at least every two hours.
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Avoid uninterrupted sun exposure between 10am
and 4pm whenever possible.
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Stay hydrated.
Drink water throughout the day.
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Avoid strenuous outdoor activity on hot days.
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If you must be outside, take frequent breaks in
a cool place.
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Air-conditioning is the best way to protect
against heat-related illness. If you do
not have air-conditioning at home during extreme heat. Try to spend time in
air-conditioned locations such as a shopping mall, public library, or public
health sponsored heat-relief shelter in your area.
Excessive heat can cause several health problems including
heat exhaustion. Symptoms include:
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Profuse sweating
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Headache
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Dizziness
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Nausea
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Rapid heartbeat
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Skin that feels cool and moist
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Muscle cramps.
Move this person to a cooler location, apply cool wet cloths
to their body, and give them cool water to drink. If the person vomits or refuses to drink,
call 9-1-1. Heat exhaustion can lead to
heat stroke.
