Did you know that when heat is combined with other stresses - like hard physical work, loss of fluids or fatigue - it may lead to heat-related illness, disability or even death. When our bodies get overheated and we lose too much water, our bodies may become out of balance or dehydrated. If this happens it can cause heat cramps, muscle spasms, confusion, dizziness, headaches, fatigue, heat stroke and death. Our internal cooling systems need extra help from us when we are in hot and humid conditions.
Check out these easy ways to prevent being affected by the heat:
- Drink plenty of water and drinks that have electrolytes such as Gatorade
- Slow down in hot and humid weather
- Pay attention to early warnings such as headache, heavy perspiration, high pulse rate and shallow breathing
- Take breaks out of the sun, relax in some shade or air conditioning
- Don’t try to suntan while working. Sunburns make it harder for our internal cooling system to work.
- Wear a hat and light-colored, long-sleeved shirts to prevent sunburn
- Wear sunscreen
And always remember to keep an eye on your co-workers and friends, too. Remind them to take a break and drink water while out in the heat!