WASHINGTON – With temperatures heading into unbearable ranges, you don’t want to end up sick because of the heat.
Here are some tips to stay cool in the heat:
- 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 some advice from the American Red Cross:
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.
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