Dos and Don'ts of Heat Safety

6/21/2016 (Permalink)

Summer Heat Safety Tips

According to data from the National Weather Service, hot temperatures harm more people—and take more lives—each year than floods, lightning, tornadoes, and hurricanes combined.

For starters, Drink when you're thirsty! Thirst kicks in when you're already around 2 percent dehydrated. On most days, women need about 9 cups of fluids, while men require 13 cups.

DO Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.

DO Limit your outdoor activity to morning and evening hours.

DO have small, frequent meals.

DO Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat (also keeps you cooler) and sunglasses and by putting on sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher.

DON'T drink too much alcohol.

DON'T rely solely on Electric fans.

DON'T leave the children or pets in the car

DON'T work outside alone - use the buddy system.

DO Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning, who spend much of their time alone or who are more likely to be affected by the heat.