It’s summer and it’s hot. While the warmer weather may have been welcome at first it’s quickly becoming more and more overbearing. It’s important for everyone to take extra care of their health in this extreme heat. It’s especially important for those of us who work outside. Here are some things to keep in mind to help you avoid heat stroke, heat exhaustion, and heat cramps.
Heat stroke occurs when your body has been so overheated that it can no longer regulate its own temperature. Symptoms of heat stroke include a high temperature, confusion, headache, profuse sweating, and even seizures. If you are someone you know suffers a heat stroke you should call for medical help and remove the affected individual to a cooler area.
Heat exhaustion happens when you’ve sweat out so much water and salt that your body can no longer function well. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include dizziness, extreme fatigue, nausea, and heavy sweating.Someone suffering from heat exhaustion should get out of the heat, take a break, and drink plenty of water.
Heat cramps can also occur when you’ve lost a lot of salt and water. If your muscle cramps due to heat, you should sit down, get out of the heat, and try to replenish your body. Drink some water and have a sports drink or a bit of food.
If you want to prevent heat before it happens you can take these preventative steps.
Wear light colored, breathable clothing like cotton
Schedule your breaks when the heat is at its worst.
Drink lots of water. You should drink water before you feel thirsty.
One Team. One Vision. One Goal. – Everyone Goes Home Safe!
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