Since summertime is here, and hot weather is inevitable, let’s remember to take precautions against overheating.
Though heat-related deaths and illnesses are preventable, there were 2,600 heat-related work injuries in one recent year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Muggy or humid conditions add to the discomfort. Excessively hot and dry conditions can create a more dangerous situation.
The CDC (Center for Disease Control) recommends:
- Drink plenty of fluids regardless of your activity level. During heavy work in a hot environment or strenuous activity of any kind, drink two to four glasses of cool fluids each hour. Don’t drink alcohol, beverages with a high sugar content or very cold drinks.
- Replace salt and minerals lost through sweating by drinking a sports beverage. Discuss beverages with your doctor if you are on a low-salt diet.
- Wear appropriate clothing. At home, wear as little as possible. When going out, choose light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses with UVA and UVB protection.
- Use sunscreen. Sunburn affects the body’s ability to cool itself. It causes a loss of body fluids, skin damage and pain. Apply a product rated SPF 15 or higher 30 minutes before going out.
- Pace yourself. When working or playing sports in a hot environment, begin slowly and pick up the pace gradually. If your heart begins to pound and you begin gasping for breath, STOP all activity. Move to a cool area or at least into shade to rest, especially if you feel lightheaded or weak.
- Watch each other. When working in the heat, monitor the condition of co-workers and have them do the same for you. Be wary of confusion.
- Stay cool indoors. If you don’t have air conditioning, go to a place that does. Even a few hours in air conditioning can help you stay cooler when you go back into the heat.
- Don’t depend on a fan to cool yourself. When the temperature is in the high 90′s, fans will not prevent heat-related illness. Cool showers could help you cool off.
Please tell how YOU stay cool in the summer.
