Safe/Keeping: Heat-Related Illnesses and Prevention
With astronomical summer officially here, it seems like a good time to talk about heat-related illnesses and ways to prevent them. Weather forecasters are predicting a hotter-than-normal summer this year that also has the potential to be one of the hottest years ever, so there is an increased need to take precautions to keep yourself and clients safe.
Some heat-related illnesses to remember include heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat cramps and heat syncope.
Heat stroke is certainly one of the more severe heat-related illnesses that can include symptoms such as confusion, slurred speech, unconsciousness, seizures, very high body temperature and a rapid heart rate.
Heat exhaustion is also serious and can cause fatigue, irritability, thirst, nausea or vomiting, dizziness or lightheadedness, heavy sweating and elevated body temperature or fast heart rate.
Heat cramps can cause muscle spasms or pain, usually in the legs, arms or trunk.
Heat syncope can cause fainting and dizziness.
If you are suffering from a heat-related illness, you should seek medical care immediately, especially if you are unable to lower your core body temperature or symptoms persist for longer than an hour. Often, people who are suffering from heat-related illnesses become confused and may not think about seeking medical help for themselves; therefore it is extremely important to keep an eye out for your family, friends, coworkers, clients and pets — especially the vulnerable populations.
As with most things, prevention is key when it comes to heat-related illnesses. Be sure to drink plenty of cool water, even if you are not thirsty. It is recommended you drink one cup of water every 20 minutes. Make sure you are taking breaks more often and for longer periods, especially if performing physically demanding activities. Wearing proper clothing for the weather can also help you stay safe; be sure to wear hats, including wide-brimmed hats if necessary, and light-colored, loose-fitting, breathable clothing. Stay safe, and happy summer!
As the summer continues to heat up, it’s important to remember there are places you can go to stay cool and beat the extreme temperatures. Heat is the top weather-related killer in the United States. According to the National Weather Service, heat causes more fatalities each year than floods, lightning, tornadoes and hurricanes.
Cooling centers are open across the state for those in need of a safe and cool place to stay. Hoosiers can call 211 to find locations. They are also available here: https://bit.ly/4f14GQV
