More people are vulnerable to heat stroke as summer temperatures move up in parts of the United States and around the world. As many as 400 people die annually from excessive natural heat according to figures from the Centers for Disease Control [CDC]. The most severe form of heat illness – heat stroke can be life-threatening resulting from long exposures to the sun in which one doesn’t sweat enough to lower body temperatures.
High temperatures and heat-related problems are more likely to affect seniors; however, extreme weather conditions could affect almost anyone, including animals.
A few precautions you must take to avoid heat stroke:
- Avoid tea, coffee, soda and alcohol. Instead drink lots of fluids on hot days, like water and sports drinks.
- Remember to wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing, in light colors.
- Wear a big hat, sunglasses, sunblock and use an umbrella when outdoors.
- Remember to take lots of drink breaks and use a spray bottle to mist yourself during outdoor activities.
- Eat solid foods that supply water like lettuce, watermelon, broccoli, grapefruit and Yoghurt.
- Try to rest as much as possible and don’t over-exert yourself during the hottest times of the day.
- Remember to cool down atleast once a day. If you don’t have an air conditioner, then take a nice, long, cool bath.
- Keep children well hydrated and indoors as much as possible.
- Keep an eye on older adults and watch for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.