EXTREME SUMMER HEAT

Did you know that heat is the number one weather-related cause of death in the United States? According to the National Weather Service, heat causes more fatalities on an annual basis than tornadoes, hurricanes, floods and lightning combined. Health concerns in extreme heat generally develop when an individual has been in the heat too long or has exercised too much for his or her age and physical condition, resulting in the inability of the body to shed heat.

Be mindful of these safety tips when the heat and humidity are extreme:

• Slow down and reduce, eliminate or reschedule more strenuous activities for the coolest part of the day, between 4 and 7 a.m. Take frequent breaks.
• Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing to reflect heat and sunlight..
• Drink plenty of water or other non-alcoholic or caffeinated beverages. Your body needs water to keep cool, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
• Eat small meals and more often. Avoid foods such as meat or other proteins that increase metabolic heat production.
• Spend more time in air-conditioned places. If air-conditioning is not available, children, seniors and anyone with health concerns should stay in the coolest available place, usually the lowest floor out of the sunshine.
• Don’t spend too much time in the sun and use sunblock. Sunburn reduces your body’s ability to dissipate heat.
• Never leave a child or pet unattended in a vehicle.
• Check on family, friends, elderly neighbors and anyone likely to be affected by the heat.

Keep track of the weather, and when excessive heat is forecast, be prepared and plan your activities accordingly.