Stay indoors and, if at all possible, stay in an air-conditioned place. If your home does not have air conditioning, go to the shopping mall or public library – even a few hours spent in air conditioning can help your body stay cooler when you go back into the heat.
Other good preventions are – drink plenty of water, don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink. Electric fans may provide comfort, but when the temperature is in the high 90s, fans will not prevent heat-related illness. Taking a cool shower or bath, is a much better way to cool off.
Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing and sunscreen, pace yourself and use the buddy system. If you have elderly neighbors or persons at higher risk, check in on them or give them a call. Do NOT leave children or pets in cars. Use the common sense approach.
If you must be out in the heat:
- Limit your outdoor activity to morning and evening hours. Cut down on exercise. If you must exercise, drink two to four glasses of cool, nonalcoholic fluids each hour. A sports beverage can replace the salt and minerals you lose in sweat. Try to rest often in shady areas.
- Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat (also keeps you cooler) and sunglasses and by putting on sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher (the most effective products say “broad spectrum” or “UVA/UVB protection” on their labels).
Staying cool will prevent heat related illnesses; please contact the local Health Department at 574-946-6080 with any questions or concerns related to heat illnesses.
