Dog Days of Summer
Record breaking heat of 100° has been hitting the Washington DC Metro area this week. Here are some tips to stay cool in the heat – and what to do if someone gets overheated:
- Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing;
- Wear a hat to shield yourself from the sun;
- Use sunscreen;
- Drink lots of water. Remember that caffeinated beverages can increase the rate of water loss in your body, increasing your risk of heat exhaustion or stroke;
- Hang out in the air conditioning or shade;
- Don’t leave children or pets in the car.
Too much time in the hot weather can make you sick. Here’s what the American Red Cross offers up as advice to recognize and treat heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Signs of Heat Exhaustion
- Normal body temperature;
- May have cool, moist, pale or flushed skin;
- Heavy sweating;
- Headache;
- Nausea or vomiting;
- Dizziness;
- Exhaustion.
What to do about heat exhaustion:
- Get the person out of the heat and into a cooler place.
- Apply cool, wet cloths.
- Give a half glass of cool water every 15 minutes.
Signs of Heat Stroke
- Body temperature as high as 105 degrees;
- Skin that’s red and hot;
- Changes in consciousness;
- Rapid, weak pulse;
- Rapid, shallow breathing.
What to do about heat stroke:
- Help is needed fast.
- Move the person to a cooler place.
- Quickly cool the body.
- Watch for signals of breathing problems.
Home Improvement Remodelers have an especially bad time if they’re working outside, on the roof, or in your attic. They know enough to bring their own hydration but make sure you have these tips handy if someone is having a hard time with the heat wave.
Be Cool! Stay Cool!
