How will you keep your cool as the weather heats up??
Staying cool: Top tips to keep cool in hot weather:
Be sun smart. …
Wetter is better. …
Drink plenty of water. …
Limit your alcohol. …
Eat light meals to feel cooler. …
Limit physical activity to cooler parts of the day. …
Keep your home cool. …
Know the risks.
Who’s most at risk?
A heatwave can affect anyone, but the most vulnerable people are:
* Older people – especially those over 75 and female.
those who live on their own or in a care home.
* People who have a serious or long-term illness including heart or lung conditions, diabetes, kidney disease, Parkinson’s disease or some mental health conditions.
* People who are on multiple medicines may be more likely to be badly affected by hot weather.
those who may find it hard to keep cool – babies and the very young, the bed-bound, those with drug or alcohol addictions or with Alzheimer’s disease.
* People who spend a lot of time outside or in hot places – those who live in a top-floor flat, the homeless or those whose jobs are outside.
When overheating does occur, it’s important to recognize the signs and symptoms of heat-related illness.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) identifies four stages of heat-related illness: heat rash, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
* Heat Rash: Heat Rash is an irritation to the skin caused by sweat buildup. While common, heat rash is usually treatable by getting individuals into a cool environment with good ventilation.
* Heat Cramps: Sweating causes a loss of body salts and fluids, which can lead to heat cramps. An individual suffering from muscle spasms or pain due to the heat should move to a cool area, rest and hydrate.
* Heat Exhaustion: If the body loses too much water and salt, heat exhaustion may result. Signs of heat exhaustion include cool, moist skin, nausea, headache, dizziness, weakness and rapid pulse. Workers should immediately lie down in a cool area, drink lots of water and apply cold compresses or ice packs if available. If signs of heat exhaustion do not abate or worsen, the individual should go to the emergency room.
* Heat Stroke: Heat Stroke is a medical emergency. If an individual suddenly stops sweating and feels hot to the touch, becomes confused, faints or has seizures, call 911 immediately. Place the worker in a cool, shady area, loosen and moisten clothing, apply ice or cold compress; get the individual to drink water if conscious.
