August is approaching, which means that summer is coming to an end as children prepare to go back to school. But in many places around the country, August is the hottest month of the summer.
We may try to soak up the sun as much as possible before the end of summer by enjoying outdoor activities including swimming, boating, biking or gardening. But even though the weather is warm, it does not mean the end of outdoor chores and maintenance such as mowing the lawn or pulling weeds.
Regardless of what brings you outside this summer, it is important to stay cool and stay hydrated. In the hottest months of the year, our bodies become more prone to heat exhaustion, which can be dangerous and possibly lead to heat stroke. According to the National Weather Service, heat is a leading weather-related killer, and although it may not seem as threatening as a tornado or a hurricane it can be just as deadly.
While this can be a severe health concern, it is easily preventable. Heat exhaustion occurs when the body gets overheated (over 104 degrees) and it can be caused by excessive physical activity or hot weather conditions. Symptoms include heavy sweating, dizziness, nausea, headache, feeling weak or confused, increased heart rate and dehydration.
If any of these symptoms emerge, it is important to contact a doctor right away, but by taking the proper precautions, you and your clients can stay safe in the summer heat.
Click through the following slides to learn how you can still enjoy the summer weather while minimizing the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of fluids, whether you feel thirsty or not. Staying hydrated will help the body sweat, and will help in lowering and maintaining a healthy body temperature.
But while drinking plenty of fluids is important, try to avoid alcoholic or caffeinated beverages, which can actually dehydrate the body.
Employers, especially, should encourage employees who work outdoors to stay hydrated and should provide hydrating beverages on-site to help prevent heat-related illness.
Wear light colored (and lightweight) clothing
Light colored clothing can help keep the body cool by reflecting the sun's rays. Wearing lighter colors, and also wearing lightweight and loose-fitting clothing can help the body stay cool.
Avoid the hottest part of the day
Instead of saving outdoor chores for the afternoon, plan to complete these tasks in the cooler parts of the day.
Save exercising or mowing the lawn for the morning or evening hours, rather than the afternoon, as it can be significantly cooler.
Take a break
When outdoors in the summer heat it is incredibly important to take frequent breaks in a shaded area, or back in the air conditioning indoors, to help regulate your body temperature.
Employers whose employees work outdoors, especially need to consider adjusting work schedules and mandating work shutdowns if the weather gets dangerously hot. Rotating personnel can also help to minimize overstress or overexertion in the heat, especially if the tasks are physical.
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