Stay Safe and Cool in the Summer Heat

Extreme summer temperatures are not only uncomfortable, they are also dangerous for your health. This is particularly true for older adults and children who are more susceptible to illness. Read on to learn more about heat-related illnesses and tips for preventing them in the summer heat.

Stay Cool In The Summer Heat

Heat Exhaustion occurs when the body is not able to sweat enough to cool itself. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include:

• Dizziness, weakness, nausea, headache and vomiting
• Blurry vision
• Body temperature of 101° F
• Sweaty skin
• Feeling hot and thirsty
• Having difficulty speaking

When someone is suffering from heat exhaustion, he/she should move into a cooler place and drink plenty of water immediately.

Heat Stroke is the result of untreated heat exhaustion and includes the following symptoms:

• Sweating
• Unawareness of heat and thirst
• Body temperature rises rapidly above 101° F
• Confusion or delirium
• Loss of consciousness
• Seizure

When someone is suffering from heat stroke, medical personnel should be called immediately, as the condition is life-threatening. Place ice packs on the person’s armpits and groin until help arrives.

Healthy Summer Heat Hints

To avoid heat illnesses in summer temperatures, remember to drink lots of water – even if you are not thirsty. Additionally, wear light-colored, lightweight clothing made of natural fibers and put on a well-ventilated hat. Lastly, avoid leaving air-conditioned areas in the middle of the day if you can. Instead, get things done outside in the early morning or evening when temperatures are cooler.

The combination of heat and humidity in the summer months can be downright uncomfortable and even dangerous. Stay cool by following these safety tips:

• Drink plenty of water. The average adult needs eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day, and even more during hot weather.
• Skip the caffeine and soda; drink water instead.  
• Dress for the weather. When outside, wear lightweight clothing of natural fabric and a well-ventilated hat.
• Eat light. Replace heavy or hot meals with lighter, refreshing foods

For more tips, click here to view the American Red Cross recommendations for summer safety.

Stay Safe in the Summer Heat

Though basking in the sun is relaxing and fun, it is also dangerous for your health. Skin cancer is both dangerous and common – it is the most common form of cancer in the United States and over two million people are diagnosed annually. Even more startling, sun exposure is the primary cause of over 90 percent of non-melanoma skin cancer cases reported in the United States.

Stay Safe in the Sun

Some people possess characteristics that place them at a higher risk for developing the disease. These risks include:

• Having a large number of moles on the body.
• Red or blonde hair, blue eyes, fair skin and freckles.
• Difficulty tanning and skin that burns easily.
• Family history of skin cancer.
• Taking medication that increases sun sensitivity.

Use These Prevention Techniques While You Are Out in the Sun:

• Avoid getting a sunburn while outside.
• Stay out of the sun between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. when the sun is at its peak in the sky.
• Wear clothes made of tightly woven fabrics and a hat that shields your face, neck and ears.
• Wear sunglasses to protect your retinas and prevent the development of cataracts.
• Use sunscreen that is at least SPF 15, applying it all over your body and lips.
• Do not use tanning beds; they are just as damaging as natural sunlight.

Healthy Summer Safety Hints

Avoiding excessive sun exposure is ultimately the best way to protect your body from skin cancer.

If you must go in the sun, routinely inspect your body for any changes such as a new freckle or enlarged mole. If you suspect that a spot on your skin is new or has changed in appearance, consult a dermatologist immediately.

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