During the extreme heat conditions of summer months, it becomes advisable to take precautions to protect your family from heat related illnesses. The American Red Cross offers tips for your safety during the extreme heat wave. They stress to never leave a child or pet inside a vehicle on a hot day. The temperatures inside vehicles can reach 120 degrees even with the windows open for fresh air. This heat can lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke, both very serious conditions for children or pets.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion include: cool, moist, pale or flushed skin, heavy sweating, headache, nausea and dizziness. Medical attention is needed immediately. Move the affected person to a cooler area, loosen tight clothing, and apply moist towels to help regulate the body temperature. You can also fan the person and offer water to drink. Call 911 if the person is unconscious.
If someone is experiencing heat cramps in their legs or abdomen, move to a cooler place and stretch the muscles. Also drink fluids that will restore the electrolytes, like Gatorade or Powerade drinks.
The American Red Cross offers tips to help avoid any of the heat related illnesses that are associated with exposure to extreme heat conditions.
• Stay hydrated and drink plenty of fluids
• Avoid extreme temperature changes
• Wear loose-fitting clothing.
• Stay indoors with air conditioning during the hottest peak of the day
• Use the “buddy-system” when working in excessive heat and take frequent breaks
• Check on animals frequently and make sure they have plenty of water and shade
• If you don’t have air conditioning in your home, open windows and circulate the air by using fans. Cover windows to keep direct sunlight out.
• A cool bath or shower can help to cool you down faster than air conditioning.
The summer month can be a fun filled time for your family but heat related accidents can spoil your time together. Take extra precautions with your children and pets and be prepared for the extreme hot days of summer.
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