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How to Stay Safe In The Heat

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By kaseysviewblog
User-Submitted Article
(1 Ratings)
biking in the summer
biking in the summer
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Everyone enjoys summer activities. But summer heat and humidity can also bring some serious health risks, such as heat exhaustion and stroke.
During extreme heat it's always best to take preventive measures especially since everyone's tolerance level is different which means that some people are more sensitive to heat and humidity than others.
How to stay safe in the heat covers several different ways that you can stay safe this summer from heat illness.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Drink fluids:
    Be sure to always drink plenty of fluids and during periods of heavy exercise you should drink approx. 2 glasses an hour. Water is always best but it doesn't hurt to also drink a sports drink such as Gatorade. But it's always best to avoid carbonated and alcoholic drinks which can cause you to become dehydrated.

  2. Step 2

    Stay indoors:
    To cut down on your risk of heat stroke or other heat related illness, stay indoors during the hottest part of the day. And if you must be outside be sure to dress appropriately for the hot weather in light loose fitting clothing and a hat. Also be sure to take breaks in a shady area and if at all possible avoid strenuous activity during the heat of the day.

  3. Step 3

    Air conditioning:
    If your home doesn't have air conditioning try to go somewhere that does for a few hours. Such as a library, mall, church,movie theater or maybe your local senior center or YMCA. Cooling down for a few hours can help your body to cool more effectively when you do get back out in the heat.

  4. Step 4

    Avoid parked vehicles:
    The temperature can quickly rise to triple digits inside a parked car. This can cause brain damage or even death. So never leave leave pets or children inside a parked vehicle.

  5. Step 5

    Be watchful:
    During extreme heat anyone can be at risk for heat exhaustion or stroke but young children and the elderly are at even more risk and should be checked on very often.

Tips & Warnings
  • Try taking a cool shower or spraying yourself with a water bottle to quickly cool down.
  • A cool cloth placed on the forehead or neck will also help you to cool down.
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