Summer Heat Safety 2024

Know the symptoms of heat illnesses and overexposure to the sun.

MINDFUL TIPSSUMMER SERIES

Val Salinas

7/10/20242 min read

sea under white clouds at golden hour
sea under white clouds at golden hour

I am pretty sure you have noticed that the 2024 Summer Season is hot across the States.

Every day, I hear on the news that numerous states are setting heat records, and hospitals are experiencing an increase in patients with heat-related illnesses.

All outdoor summer activities and events must include precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses.

More so during peak hours between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm, and drinking plenty of water throughout the day will aid with keeping the body hydrated.

A clear indication of dehydration is thirstiness, dry mouth, and yellow to dark yellow urine.

Know the symptoms of heat disorders and overexposure to the sun, and be ready to give first aid treatment and call 911.

Heat Cramps - are caused by excessive loss of salt and water during strenuous exercise or outdoor activities for long periods in high temperatures.

These cramps can cause powerful muscle contractions that usually affect the abdomen and legs, and other symptoms include dizziness, fatigue, lethargy, and dehydration.

Stop all activities, move to a shaded environment, rest, and sip water.

Seek medical attention if heat cramps do not subside within an hour.

Heat Exhaustion - is caused by a single or a combination of prolonged periods of high heat exposure, humidity, strenuous activity, and dehydration.

The effects are more severe than heat cramps, and symptoms may include paleness, dizziness or fainting, nausea or vomiting, and increased body temperature.

Stop all activity, move to a cool place, rehydrate with cool water or sports drink, and apply cool compresses (ice water on the back of the neck, etc).

If symptoms do not improve within an hour, seek medical attention immediately.

Heat Stroke - is the most serious of heat-related conditions, and it occurs when body temperature reaches 104°F (40°C), also during intense physical activity in hot conditions or in high temperatures for non-active individuals.

Visual signs include a flushed face, red skin, vomiting and nausea, high body temperature, rapid heart rate, and sweating.

In severe cases, other symptoms include deliriousness, unconsciousness, or seizures.

Stop all activities immediately, lower the body temperature, get fluids into the person as quickly as possible, and call 911 immediately.

If left untreated, a person can experience severe consequences such as damage to the brain, heart, lungs, kidneys, and muscles.

Be SMART about your body this summer.

Drink plenty of water, wear sunscreen, limit your time during sun peak hours 10:00 am - 4:00 pm, let your body acclimate to the rising temperatures, and exercise early in the morning.

Enjoy the summer season, and stay safe.