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. Here are some tips on what you can do to prevent a heat-related illness.
*Drink more fluids, regardless of your activity level. Don’t wait until you are thirsty to drink. Stay away from very sugary or alcoholic drinks.
*Stay cool indoors, and if possible, in an air-conditioned place. Take a cool bath or shower.
*Limit your outdoor activity to morning and evening hours. Rest often in shady areas. Cut down on exercise during the heat. If exertion makes your heart pound and leaves you gasping for breath, STOP all activity and get into a cool area to rest.
*Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
* Wear sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher. Sunburn affects your ability to cool down and can make you dehydrated. If you must go outdoors, protect yourself by wearing a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
*Do not leave children or pets in cars. Cars can quickly heat up to dangerous temperatures even with windows cracked open.
*Visit adults at risk at least twice a day and closely watch them for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Infants and young children, need much more frequent watching.