How to Avoid Heat Illness

Heat Illness can come swiftly to anyone, anytime, so be careful and follow these simple steps..

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Pen or pencil, computer, good thinking...

1. Once you feel thirsty, realize that you are becoming dehydrated. This is a signal from your body, that you need water!

2. Avoid intense exercise, especially during the hottest times of the day--10 to 2 and exercise shortly after sunrise or around sunset.

3. Always wear light clothing. This allows your body to breathe and that is most important.

4. Use a sunscreen. This will help prevent sunburn and drying of the skin.

5. Keep hydrated. This means drinking 16-20 ounces an hour, especially when exercising strenuously and for long periods of time.

6. Avoid heavy meals. The heart has to pump harder after such meals and this puts additional stress on the body.

Tips & Warnings

• Use common sense when out under the sun. Remember heat exhaustion can come on quickly and often is not felt until damage has been done.
• The elderly, the very young and those with health related issues such as high blood pressure, diabetes, skin concerns and such need to be especially careful. If one feels sick to his or her stomach while out in the sun, be sure and get cool--as soon as possible and seek medical attention, if required.