How to Prevent Heat Exhaustion & Heat Stroke: 5 Extreme Heat Safety Tips

Many New Hampshire residents highly anticipate the warm weather our summer season brings, but when temperatures begin reaching the high 80s and low to mid 90s, safety concerns arise, especially for infants, the elderly, people with existing medical conditions, and people without access to air conditioning.  Heat exhaustion and heat stoke represent two serious risks that summer heat poses. Let’s take a closer look at the symptoms of each and the steps you should take to prevent them and stay safe in extreme heat.

 

Heat Exhaustion Signs & Symptoms

When a person is unable to perspire enough to cool his/her body, heat exhaustion occurs, typically as a result of a lack of fluids consumed during hot weather. People who are working, exercising, or even playing outside in extreme heat are more prone to experience heat exhaustion. If you suspect you or someone around you is developing it, look for the following symptoms:

·         Blurry vision

·         Sweaty skin

·         Headache, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting

·         Difficulty speaking

·         Body temperature rising to 101 degrees Fahrenheit

·         Feeling hot and thirsty

If you are experiencing heat exhaustion, move to a cool place immediately and drink plenty of water. Heat exhaustion can develop into heat stroke, so it’s important to treat it right away.

Heat Stroke Symptoms & Treatment

Heat stroke is a serious medical emergency that can result from untreated heat exhaustion. Look for the following symptoms of heat stroke:

·         Body temperature rising rapidly and exceeding 101 degrees Fahrenheit

·         Sweating

·         Seizure or loss of consciousness

·         Delirium or confusion

·         Unawareness of thirst and heat

Heat stroke must be treated immediately by a trained professional, but until help arrives, it’s best to start trying to cool down the person by placing ice (if available) on his/her armpits, neck, and groin. If the person is conscious and able to swallow, give him/her plenty of fluids.

5 Extreme Heat Safety Tips

To prevent heat exhaustion and heat stroke, keep the following five extreme heat safety tips in mind throughout our summer season:

1.      Stay hydrated – one of the most important steps to take in extremely hot weather is to make sure you are drinking plenty of water. The average adult requires eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day, and even more in extreme heat. Be sure you are consuming enough water to quench your thirst.

2.      Remain indoors when possible – stay inside in an air conditioned space whenever possible. If you need to run errands and/or complete other outdoor chores, try to accomplish them either first thing in the morning or later in the evening toward the end of the day.

3.      Eat light meals – try to eat light, refreshing foods instead of hot, heavy meals in extreme heat.

4.      Dress appropriately – just as you need to dress to stay warm during our freezing winter months, it’s important to dress appropriately for extreme heat in the summer. When outdoors, wear lightweight clothing made of natural fabrics, along with a well-ventilated hat.

5.      Stay cool – take cool showers instead of hot ones, and apply cold compresses to your pulse points every now and again to help regulate your body temperature.

Keeping these safety tips in mind will help you and your loved ones remain safe in extreme heat, allowing you to enjoy our summer season to its fullest. At Hunkins & Eaton Insurance Agency, the safety of you and your family members is our priority. For additional safety tips and valuable resources, please read our other blog posts, and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter and Google+.