As we head into the summer don't forget that July is usually the warmest month in the Northern Hemisphere. Depending on where you live, temperatures can reach over 100 degrees! Heat is a great thing to have when you’re cold but when your body temperature is already elevated, increased heat can be deadly.
Stay Inside
If possible, stay inside where it is air-conditioned. If your home isn’t properly air-conditioned, many cities host cooling stations for people to go to when temperatures reach record highs. You can also go to other public areas such as malls, community centers, restaurants, etc. for a few hours to make sure that you and your family don’t get too hot.
Stay In the Shade
If you are stuck outside try to stay in the shade as much as possible. If you can’t, it’s good to know your body’s best cooling points such as your wrists and neck. You can apply a cool cloth or ice there to help you keep cool.
Take A Swim
Swimming pools and playing in the sprinkler systems are fun ways to cool off. The young and young at heart love it!
Avoid Using Your Oven and Dryer During the Day
Appliances such as the oven and clothes dryer emit huge amounts of heat. The best time to use them is early in the morning and late at night when temperatures are cooler.
Don’t Sit In A Hot Car
It’s so convenient to just hop in your car and go but a car that’s been sitting in the hot sun for hours can be dangerous. Roll down the windows and open the doors to let some of the heat out before entering. You can also turn on the air conditioner for a few minutes before you enter. If your seats are leather, don’t sit on them until they have cooled down or sit on a cloth to avoid burning your skin. NEVER, NEVER, NEVER leave children or pets in the car during the summer. When temps are high leaving the windows cracked may not be enough.
Learn the symptoms of heat exhaustion which can lead to heatstroke. This will help you know when it’s time to cool off or seek medical attention.
· Cool, moist skin with goosebumps when in the heat
· Heavy sweating
· Faintness
· Dizziness
· Fatigue
· Weak, rapid pulse
· Low blood pressure upon standing
· Muscle cramps
· Nausea
· Headache
If you are experiencing these symptoms:
· Stop all activity and rest
· Move to a cooler place
· Drink cool water or sports drinks
Other Resources
Summer is made for having fun but make sure you do it safely.
Here’s a handy guide from the CDC that addresses, heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and heat rash.