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Warm Weather Safety
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A few tips to keep yourself & others safe during the warm weather
- Wear lightweight, light colored clothing
- Protect your head by wearing a hat or use an umbrella
- Use sunscreen, reapply every few hours
- Keep drinking plenty of water or juice, avoid caffine & alcohol
- Drink fluids even if you don't feel thirsty
- Eat smaller meals & more frequently
- Avoid as much outside activity as possible
- Try to schedule activities for early in the day or evening
- Take frequent breaks in a cool place if your engaged in outside activities
- Always remember that children and the elderly are not able to cope as well with the heat and may need special attention
Heat Related Illnesses
- Heat Cramps- Heat cramps are muscular pains and spasms due to heavy exertion. They usually involve the abdominal muscles or legs.
- Heat Exhaustion: Heat exhaustion is less dangerous than heat stroke. It typically occurs when people exercise heavily or work in a warm, humid place where body fluids are lost through heavy sweating. Signs to watch for include cool, moist, pale, flushed or red skin, heavy sweating, headache, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, and exhaustion. Body temperature will be near normal.
- Heat stroke: Also known as sunstroke, heat stroke is life threatening. Symptoms include: hot, red and dry skin, changes in consciousness, rapid weak pulse, and rapid/shallow breathing.
Care of Heat Emergencies
- Get the person to a cooler place and have him/her rest in a comfortable position.
- If the person is fully awake and alert give a half glass of water every 15 minutes, drink slowly. No liquids with alcohol or caffeine.
- Remove or loosen tight clothing and apply cool, wet cloths.
- Call 9-1-1 if the person refuses water, vomits or loses consciousness.
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