Winneshiek County Public Health reminds the public that with temperatures expected to be in the upper 80s and 90s with high humidity, heat related illnesses can be prevented. Heat related illness can be caused by doing too much on a hot day, spending too much time in the sun or staying too long in an overheated area.
The very young and the elderly are at highest risk because they do not adjust well to sudden changes in temperature. Healthy individuals can also become ill if they don’t follow the following tips:
*Drink more fluids, particularly nonalcoholic, regardless of your activity level. Don’t wait until you are thirsty to drink.
*Stay indoors, and if possible in an air-conditioned place. Just because it is cloudy or windy does not mean it is cool enough to open windows.
*Take a cool bath or shower.
*Limit your outdoor activity to morning and evening hours. Remember to wear insect repellant since mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk.
*Rest often in shady areas and wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. Wear sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher. Skin will burn quickly during the high heat.