Tips for Staying Cool This Summer
Be aware of the heat. Pay attention to it and modify your activities appropriately.- Pay attention to your hydration status and be sure to drink plenty of fluids.
- Try to stay in relatively cool areas, even when outside. Many public places, such as libraries, shopping malls and movie theatres, are air conditioned.
- Avoid hot, enclosed places, such as cars. Never leave children unattended in a car!
- Use a fan, if available.
- Stay on the lowest floor of your building.
- Eat well-balanced, light and regular meals.
- Wear loose-fitting, lightweight and light-colored clothing.
- Cover windows that receive a significant amount of sun with drapes or shades to help keep your house cool.
- Cool beverages are good for cooling down the body, while alcoholic drinks can impair the body’s ability to regulate its temperature.
Signs of Heat Overexposure
- Heavy sweating — though if heat stroke sets in, the body can no longer compensate and stops sweating.
- Pale skin.
- Muscle cramps.
- Feeling tired and weak.
- Altered mental status (confusion or disorientation).
- Headache.
- Becoming semi-conscious or passing out.
- Nausea or vomiting.
Steps to Take After Recognizing Heat-Induced Illness
- Call 911.
- Get the person out of the sun and into a cool area. An air-conditioned area is ideal, but moving someone into the shade will also help.
- Apply water to help the person cool off.
- Apply ice to the neck or armpits, where large blood vessels are close to the surface.
- Remove any heavy clothing.
- Immerse the body in cool water, either at a swimming pool or in a bathtub.
Don’t forget the pets, keep them cool and hydrated too!