Even though we’re enjoying cool days now, it’s good to remember that when the weather turns warm the risk increases for heat-related illnesses.
An average of 658 people in the U.S. each year succumb to extreme heat. Many times heat-related illnesses are preventable if you prepare and take steps to avoid getting overheated.
H2O is the way to go! Avoid energy drinks, caffeine, sugary drinks and alcohol. On a hot day, an adult should drink 8 ounces of water at least every 20 minutes, or between 24-32 ounces every hour. Drinking water at shorter intervals will help keep you hydrated. You should drink water before and after being in the heat, so you’re not playing catch up. Take caution to not drink more than 48 ounces in an hour because this can cause a medical emergency due to decrease in salt concentration in your blood.
Other measures of prevention are as follows:
• Wear loose-fitting, light-weight, light-colored clothing.
• Wear wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses and broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30. Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours or more often if sweating/swimming. UV rays are the strongest between 10 a.m.-4 p.m., so keep this in mind while outdoors.
• Reduce or eliminate strenuous activities or do them in cooler parts of the day.
• Take extra precautions with certain medications that can affect your body’s ability to stay hydrated/dissipate heat.
• Never leave anyone (humans or pets) in a parked car. Keep doors locked to prevent children entering.
• Provide plenty of fresh water for pets and leave water in a shady area.
• Be cautious if you’re at a higher risk.
• Take time to adjust yourself by not spending excessive amounts of time in the heat until you acclimated to it.
• Check on elderly, disabled, or homebound family, friends and neighbors on hot days to assist if needed.
Risk Factors for Heat-Related Illness:
• Age
