We all know sunstroke is no joke. The long hot days of summer can bring a dangerously high temperature that can put at risk even to those who are completely accustomed to climate. This is especially dangerous for children, the elderly and people who are working on physically demanding jobs like construction.
As such, it is important to take the necessary measures in order to avoid being caught by the heat.
Choosing the Right Clothing for Your Day
This is very important, as clothes not only protect us from the elements but also can affect the way our body gets rid of the excess heat. When choosing your clothes for hot weather, you should wear light clothing, specifically something that will keep you fresh but without exposing too much skin to the sun.
Do Not Forget Sunscreen, Sunglasses, and Headwear
Sunscreen is a must if you will be getting exposed to sunlight for extended for periods of time like when you go to the pool or the beach. Using a hat will protect you from heat stroke and using glasses will protect your eyes from the constant reflection of sunlight.
Keeping Yourself Hydrated
Your body naturally gets rid of heat by sweating, as it will moisturize your skin and then evaporate, getting rid of the excess heat. However, sweat is composed of water, and that water comes from your body. The more you sweat the more water you lose, and if you don’t keep yourself well hydrated, then you will face the risk of dehydration which will, in turn, make it harder for your body to sweat and that will put you at risk of suffering of a heatstroke.
Be Aware of the Risk of Your Medication
Some types of medicine will put you more at risk of suffering the effects of too much heat. For example, medicine that increases the risk of high blood pressure can put you in danger of having a stroke. If you are under medication, then try your best to stay indoors or at least in the shade.
Never Leave Anyone Inside a Parked Car
High temperature and closed areas don’t mix. At over 90 degrees at noon, the inside of a car can be pretty much a slow-burning oven. As there is no place for air to circulate inside of the vehicle, the heat will accumulate and the inside of a car will reach dangerous temperatures. Those temperatures can easily leave a person needing medical assistance on the spot and are known to be a significant danger for pets and infants left inside cars. Not only that but in many states, police are allowed to break into a parked car in order get whoever is inside of it out.
Try Scheduling Work and Exercise to Cooler Times of the Day
Going for a jog at noon with three-digit temperatures is extremely dangerous. Scheduled your working-out routine to cooler hours of the day. And in case of work, make sure you take breaks every hour or whenever you feel exhausted by the heat.
Be Mindful of the Symptoms of Heat Stroke and Keep an Eye on Your Condition
Your body is smart enough to tell you where you are at risk due to the temperature of your body, however, you must listen to it in order to keep yourself safe. Be mindful of symptoms of dehydration like dried lips or mouth, if you feel a headache that is located around your forehead or at top of your neck, immediately find a shade and wait at least 15 minutes in order to cool down, if possible, also get water.
Know your own limitations – if you are affected at work, you may want to talk to a lawyer.
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