Prepare for hot weather. When the temperature rises, so do heat-related health risks like cramping, exhaustion and heat stroke. An estimated 600 people die from heat-related illness each year, according to the Center for Disease Control. Stay safe in hot weather by taking precautions. Be aware of symptoms and take care of problems if they arise.
These tips can help keep you safe.
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Check the heat index. It may be hotter than it feels. If the heat index is over 80, take care.
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Stay indoors or take breaks in public buildings with air conditioning.
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Eat light, but often.
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Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
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Ask your doctor if your medications raise your chances for heat-related illness.
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Limit strenuous outdoor activity to the coolest parts of the day.
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Treat symptoms of heat exhaustion, even if they seem minor. They can become serious-even life threatening-quickly.
Know the symptoms of heat-related illness.
Too much physical activity in hot weather or staying too long in high heat can lead to serious symptoms.
Heat cramps: Muscle pain, spasms or cramps, usually in the stomach or extremities, are most likely to happen when you're active in hot weather.
Heat exhaustion: Feeling faint, weak, dizzy, growing pale or having quick, shallow breathing are all signs of heat exhaustion. Without medical care, heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke.
Heat stroke is a life-threatening illness. Symptoms of heat stroke can be confusion, unusual behavior, nausea, seizure or loss of consciousness. Get medical care right away if these symptoms occur; call 911 or your local emergency alert system.
What to do if you think you have serious heat related issues.
If you or someone else loses consciousness, acts confused, acts strangely, becomes nauseous or has a seizure, get medical care immediately. Call 911 or your local emergency alert system.
If you need to be out in hot weather, try these tips:
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Drink cool fluids, like water or sports drinks.
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Limit alcohol, caffeine and sugar.
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Find shade or an air conditioned space.
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Take a cool shower or bath. Do not use an alcohol rub.
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Limit exercise in the heat.
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Wear a wide-brimmed hat and light, loose-fitting clothes.
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