Tips to Prevent Heat-Related Illnesses
Beyond skin damage, overexposure to the sun can lead to illness and even death. Heat-related deaths and illness are preventable yet over 600 people succumb to extreme heat annually. Extreme heat can affect the body by causing very high body temperatures and brain and organ damage.
Help protect you and your loved ones from heat-related illness by following these tips:
- Drink more fluids, regardless of your activity level. Don’t wait until you are thirsty to drink.
- Avoid drinks that contain alcohol or large amounts of sugar.
- Stay indoors and, if possible, in an air-conditioned place. When temperatures are in the high 90s, fans will not prevent heat-related illness.
- Never leave anyone alone in a closed, parked vehicle.
- Some people are at greater risk for heat-related illness than others. Check regularly on: infants and young children; people age 65 and older; people who have a mental illness; those who are physically ill, especially with heart disease or high blood pressure.
Limit your outdoor activity to mornings and evening hours. Reduce exercise intensity or duration, and rest in shady areas.
Source: www.bt.cdc.gov
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