Hot weather provides the perfect opportunity to get outdoors and enjoy the sunshine. It can also be dangerous if you don’t take proper precautions. Here are 10 tips for staying safe during hot weather:
- Stay Hydrated – Drink plenty of fluids (water is best) throughout the day to prevent dehydration. Especially if you’re exercising or working outside for long periods of time.
- Wear Appropriate Clothing – Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothes that will help your body stay cool and comfortable. Make sure to protect your head and eyes with a hat and sunglasses.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight – When possible, stay in the shade or indoors, as direct sunlight can cause heat exhaustion or heat stroke. If you must be outside in direct sunlight, limit your exposure as much as possible and take frequent breaks in cooler areas. Going for a jog? Pick the tree-covered sunlight-dappled path rather than the full-out-in-the-open track.
- Take Breaks – When engaging in outdoor activities, take frequent breaks in a cool area to avoid overheating your body.
- Watch for Signs of Heat Illness – Watch for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke such as dizziness, nausea, headache, rapid breathing or confusion. Seek medical attention immediately if any occur.
- Check on Loved Ones – Check on elderly loved ones regularly who may not be able to get out of hot environments easily. Help them to recognize symptoms of heat illness. Teach them to quickly respond appropriately on their own.
- Use Sunscreen – Wear sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 whenever spending time outdoors. This will help to prevent sunburns which can lead to more serious health problems down the line.
- Stay Cool Indoors – Take advantage of air conditioning whenever possible by spending time indoors when temperatures are high outside.
- Avoid Alcohol Consumption – Alcohol consumption increases risk of dehydration so it’s important to limit alcohol intake when temperatures are high .
- Monitor Temperature – Watch local temperature forecasts closely so that you can plan accordingly and avoid prolonged exposure when temperatures become dangerously high.
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CSRE offers Community Courses, focused on the general population, Workforce education, targeted at industry and the commercial workforce, and Healthcare provider BLS and ECC (ACLS & PALS) courses from the American Heart Association and Health Safety Institute.
