Keep Your Cool

Protect your health during extreme heat. Stay cool and use common sense. Here are some tips:

• Stay in cool (or air-conditioned if possible) places

• Keep hydrated: Increase your fluid intake regardless of activity and don’t wait until you are thirsty to drink. A general rule of thumb is to drink enough non-alcoholic fluids each hour to maintain normal color and output of urine. (Some people may be fluid-restricted because of underlying health disorders. If this is the case, consult with your doctor on the best ways to stay hydrated.)

• Wear appropriate clothing. Wear as little clothing as possible and choose lightweight, light colored and loose-fitting garments. A wide-brimmed hat can help protect you from the sun and keep your head cool.

• Be sure to use sunscreen. Although using sunscreen will not protect a person from heat-related illness, it is important to help protect from sunburn. Make sure you apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside and reapply according to package directions.

• Replace salts and minerals. Heavy sweating depletes your body of salt and minerals, however, do not take salt tablets unless directed by your doctor. Drink fruit juice or a sports beverage when you exercise or work in the heat to replace salts and minerals.

• Monitor those at risk: Use a buddy system and know which groups are more at-risk for heat-related illnesses.

• Adjust to your environment: Pace yourself if you are working out or working in a hot environment. Increase outdoor activity gradually and limit activity to the cooler times of the day.

  Learn more from the pros at the CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/heattips.html