Tip of the Day – Keep Cool

Author: danielkilburn 2022-07-23 0 Comments

20220722 Tip of the Day – Keep Cool

Extreme Heat

It’s important to be aware of the risks associated with extreme heat. Staying cool and avoiding injury is crucial, even if you live in VISN 8’s geographical service area (Florida) which includes parts or South Georgia as well!

The human body was not meant to operate in the heat of early summer. The life-threatening dangers that come with extreme temperatures can be avoided by taking care and following some simple guidelines, such as drinking plenty of water when you are thirsty or placing cool mist humidifiers in your home during these sweltering days!

To avoid the risk of death from heatstroke, always drink plenty of fluids and wear light-colored clothing while outside.

We all know that extreme heat is the leading cause of annual deaths in America. Lately, it seems like everyone has been talking about how we should be doing more to protect ourselves from this dangerous weather condition. There are many things you can do starting today and going forward which will help keep your family safe during any hot spell or tropical storm!

The heat is one of the most dangerous things in nature, and it can kill you with just a few degrees rise. It’s always best to be safe than sorry- here are some tips on how not only cool off but also identify signs/symptoms if someone has been a victim so they know what their next steps should be!

Preparedness

In the summertime, it’s easy to let your body temperature rise and become uncomfortable. A fan can seem like a good idea at first, but they provide little relief from heat stroke or other illnesses related to being too warm in an enclosed space without proper ventilation. Never rely on one as your primary cooling device!

There are many ways you could prevent this problem: install window ACs; cover up any glass surfaces so that less sunlight gets through (this includes drapes) ; take steps towards insulating buildings by making air conditioners more efficient use electricity efficiently where possible). If all else fails investigate funding opportunities such as If you are unable to afford your cooling costs, weatherization, or energy-related home repairs, contact the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) for help. https://www.liheap.org/

Safety

    Never leave people or pets in a closed car on a warm day.

    If air conditioning is not available in your home, go to a cooling center.

    Take cool showers or baths.

    Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing.

    If you’re outside, find shade. Wear a hat wide enough to protect your face.

    Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.

Heat-Related Illness

Know the signs of heat-related illnesses and ways to respond. If you are sick and need medical attention, contact your healthcare provider for advice and shelter in place if you can. If you are experiencing a medical emergency call 9-1-1.

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/heatrelated-illnesses-heat-cramps-heat-exhaustion-heat-stroke

HEAT STROKE

Signs:

    Extremely high body temperature (above 103 degrees F) taken orally

    Red, hot, and dry skin with no sweat

    Rapid, strong pulse

    Dizziness, confusion, or unconsciousness

If you suspect heat stroke, call 9-1-1 or get the person to a hospital immediately. Cool down with whatever methods are available until medical help arrives. Do not give the person anything to drink.

HEAT CRAMPS

Signs: Muscle pains or spasms in the stomach, arms, or legs

HEAT EXHAUSTION

Signs: Heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, fast or weak pulse, dizziness, headache, fainting, nausea, vomiting

If you have signs of heat cramps or heat exhaustion, go to a cooler location, and cool down by removing excess clothing and taking sips of sports drinks or water. Call your healthcare provider if symptoms get worse or last more than an hour.

Additional information;

https://www.emergencyactionplanning.com/2019/03/25/tip-of-the-day-20190325-water/

Till next time

“Be Safe”

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