July 1, 2009

Safety Tips for Beating the Heat

Heat-related illnesses can cause serious injury and even death. Nausea, dizziness, flushed or pale skin, heavy sweating and headaches are Signs of heat-related illnesses. Victims of heat-related illness should be moved to a cool place, given cool water to drink and ice packs or cool wet cloths should be applied to the skin. If a victim refuses water, vomits or loses consciousness, call 9-1-1. A few safety tips include:

• Curtail outdoor activity.
• Drink plenty of fluids, but avoid alcohol or caffeine.
• Avoid hot cars. After 20 minutes, the temperature inside a car can be 150 degrees.
• Do not leave children or pets in your car.
• Make sure pets have plenty of water and shade.
• Dress babies appropriately for hot weather in lightweight clothing (a diaper and T-shirt).
• Wear lightweight, loose and light-colored clothing.
• Wide-brimmed hats help keep the head cool.
• Use sunscreens to reduce the risk of sunburn. Protection factor (SPF) number should be 15 or higher.
• Watch for symptoms of heat-related illnesses: confusion, fatigue, impaired judgment, weakness, red cheeks, chills, hyperventilation, dizziness and, in severe cases, collapse, loss of consciousness or seizures.
• Friends, relatives and neighbors should check on people who may be at risk. A break in a cool environment can help.
• Slow down by reducing or eliminating strenuous activities. Or reschedule them to the coolest time of day.
• Avoid hot foods and heavy meals. They add heat to your body.
• Use a buddy system when working in the heat by monitoring the condition of your friend or co-worker.
• Stay in air-conditioned areas.