Beat the Heat, Be Safe This Summer

Summer has barely begun, and already there are reports of extreme heat across the U.S.  As temperatures rise, it is important to be aware of the potential risks of heat on the body.   

When the body becomes overheated, blood vessels dilate, leading to lower blood pressure and increased heart rate.  Being overheated can lead to numerous conditions including heat rash, swollen feet, dizziness, nausea, fainting, confusion, muscle cramps, headaches, and fatigue. In severe cases, heat exhaustion can occur, potentially leading to heart attacks if blood pressure drops too low.

Here’s a checklist to keep you and your loved ones safe this summer: 

• Check in on loved ones, especially those who are elderly and those who may not have air conditioning in their homes
• Stay in shaded areas within your home as well as outside
• Drink plenty of fluids.  Water is preferred over soft drinks because sugar and carbonation cause dehydration. If you aren’t a fan of water, try making it tastier by adding lemon, mint, cucumber or a little fruit juice.  Gatorade, or any drink with electrolytes is good.
• Never leave a child
• in your car in hot weather.  This should be obvious, but every year, we hear new reports of children who have died as a result of adults leaving them in a hot car, unattended.  Also, it’s best to leave your pets at home. 
• Keep physical exertion to a minimum.
• If you or someone else shows signs of heat exhaustion, move them to a cool place, give them water and cool their skin.
• Remember, heat-related deaths happen in the early stages of a heatwave and are often related to underlying health conditions. The elderly, and those with underlying health conditions, or those taking certain medications are at the highest risk.

By following safety precautions and staying aware of the risks, you can protect yourself and those you love.