Keep cool in hot weather

Hot weather can be a health hazard

By Cathleen Liberty
Webster Health Agent

As much as the people in New England love summer, those days when extreme heat occurs, it can be a health hazard. During extreme heat, the body gets too hot and it cannot properly cool itself off.  This is dangerous enough to cause death. Heat-related illness is preventable therefore; people need to know who is at a higher risk and what can be done to prevent heat-related illness during extreme heat.

To prevent heat-related illness;

Take into consideration that age, fever, dehydration, heart disease, poor circulation, sunburn, prescription drug and alcohol use determine if a person can cool off in extreme heat.

Do not take part in strenuous physical activities during extreme heat.

During extreme heat, limit your outdoor activities to morning and evening hours.

If you must be outdoors, try to limit your outdoor activity to morning and evening hours. Try to rest often in shady areas so that your body's thermostat will have a chance to recover.

If you feel your heart pounding while working or exercising in the heat, be sure to stop all activities and get in a cool shaded area to rest.

The number one protective factor against heat-related illness is being in an air-conditioned environment during extreme heat.

How to help others during extreme heat;

Those who are greater risk to develop heat-related illness should be monitored.  Those at greater risk are;

Infants and children

The elderly population

Overweight people

Physically ill people

It is important to visit the higher risk population at least twice a day watching for signs of heat-related symptoms such as light headiness, confusion and dizziness.

Remember to…

• Stay cool indoors.
• Drink plenty of fluids. (Non-alcoholic).
• Replace salt and minerals.
• Wear appropriate clothing and sunscreen.
• Schedule outdoor activities carefully.
• Pace yourself.
• Use a buddy system.
• Monitor people at high risk.
• Adjust to the environment.
• Do not leave children in cars.
• Use common sense.

Stay Informed

Listen to local news and weather channels or contact your local public health department during extreme health conditions for health and safety updates.