Beating the Summer Heat
Last summer was the third hottest on record in the United States since 1895, and if you subscribe to global warming, it’s only going to get hotter. Summer in the south is no joke, and it’s imperative to know how to keep yourself and your loved ones cool when the temperature begins to climb.
A heat related illness can occur when your sweat no longer meets the cooling demands of your body. Knowing what symptoms to look for is the best preventative measure. Warning signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion include: profuse sweating, nausea, vomiting, headache and dizziness. If this occurs, take action to cool the body off as quickly as possible. Move indoors and apply ice packs or a cold sponge over the forehead, neck and back. If possible, immerse in a cold tub or ice bath. Heat exhaustion can worsen if left untreated, so be sure to know what signs to look out for in yourself, your family and your pets.
Here are some tips to help you be prepared to beat the heat:
- Stay hydrated with plenty of water and other fluids high in electrolytes (i.e. Gatorade)
- Wear lightweight and loose-fitted clothing
- Wear a hat during long periods in the sun (you can even try periodically pouring cool water into the cap and then putting it back on)
- Take advantage of the indoors during the hottest times of the day. Air consitioning is the number one protective factor against heat related illness. Spend some quality time with friends and family at the mall, movie theater, public library, or museum.
No one knows air conditioning like Barry does, so call us if you have any questions regarding beating the summer heat. Barry Knows Cool.
