STAYING COOL DURING HOT WEATHER

The human body keeps itself cool by letting heat escape through the skin and by evaporating sweat. Hot weather challenges the body’s ability to cool effectively and people may experience a heat related illness because their body cannot cool fast enough. Infants and older adults are at greater risk of developing a heat related illness during hot weather. The American Red Cross warns us that heat related illnesses can become serious, even deadly, if unattended.

To Learn the Symptoms of Heat Related Illness
Go to: http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/heat_guide.asp

Tips for Preventing Heat Related Illness

The American Red Cross and the CDC offer tips for preventing heat related illness. Some of their tips include:

• Dress for the heat - wear light weight, light colored, loose fitting clothing.
• Drink fluids, but avoid drinks with caffeine, alcohol, or large amounts of sugar.
• Eat small meals and eat more often.
• Stay in air conditioned buildings or rooms if possible.
• Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle.
• Slow down; limit outdoor activities; limit exercise.
• If you must be outside, limit outdoor activities to early morning and evening hours.

For More Information on Heat Related Illness and Prevention Tips see:

• American Red Cross, “Heat Wave Safety Checklist” http://www.redcross.org/portal/site/en/menuitem.86f46a12f382290517a8f210b80f78a0/?vgnextoid=8cc6a5f0f013b110VgnVCM10000089f0870aRCRD
• CDC, “Extreme Heat” http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat

Find a Cool Place

If you know someone who is at risk because of the heat, have them call their town police or fire department to see if there is a place they can go to stay cool, and to make sure rescue personnel are aware that there may be a problem.

During the day there are public places such as libraries, senior centers, and shopping malls that offer respite from the heat.

Some towns may offer help for seniors or people with disabilities who are at greater risk during hot weather. To find out if a town is doing this, call the town’s senior center, elderly services department, municipal agent, or social services department.

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PREPARED BY:211/rj
CONTENT LAST REVIEWED: July2011