YOU ARE HERE: Central Kentucky Home→Collections

Personal safety in hot weather

August 01, 2007|Jennifer Howard

When the temperature rises, keep these tips in mind to deal with the heat. Young children, older people, and those with certain medical problems will be most affected by extreme heat.

Personal Safety Tips

-Dress for the weather. Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, clothing. Cover as much skin as possible to prevent sunburn and over-warming from direct exposure to sunlight. Wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect and shade your face.

-Drink plenty of fluids, especially water. Drink before you feel thirsty to prevent dehydration, and avoid drinks with alcohol or caffeine.

-Stay indoors as much as possible. If you don't have air conditioning, the lowest floor of your home out of direct sunlight will be your best choice. Fans can help circulate air, but they are not very effective in reducing heat-related illnesses if the temperature is above 90 degrees.

-Use a hot day to make a trip to your public library or community center.

-Avoid spending time outdoors from mid-morning until mid-afternoon. Exercising or working during the hottest part of the day causes many heat emergencies.

-Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles. The temperature inside a closed vehicle can rise above 140 degrees very quickly.

-Be sure your pets have a good supply of cool or shaded water.

-Stay out of the sun as much as possible. If you must be in the sun, use a sunscreen with a sun protection factor of 15 or higher.

-Watch for the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Remember that heat stroke is life threatening. Call 911 or your local emergency number.

Signs of Heat Exhaustion

-Cool, moist, pale or flushed skin

-Heavy sweating

-Headache or dizziness

-Nausea or vomiting

-Exhaustion

Signs of Heat Stroke

-Hot, red skin