Summer Tan: What it is Worth?

reprinted from the National Weather Service/National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration website [http://www.nws.noaa.gov/er/lwx/heat.htm].

from On the Move, Summer (June) Quarter 1999, Volume 12, Number 2

With the onset of summer heat, here are some good reminders to be safe when working outdoors. Remember, working on the road increases your heat exposure danger! BE CAREFUL!

What to do When a Heat Waves Strikes

1. Increase your intake of non-alcoholic, non-carbonated, caffeine-free beverages such as water and juice.
2. Wear clothing that is light in color and loose fitting.
3. Avoid the outdoors during extreme heat. Stay out of the sun. (If you must be outdoors, cover up as much as possible.)
4. Stay in an air-conditioned environment if possible. Shopping malls offer relief if your home is not air-conditioned.
5. Check on the elderly. They are especially susceptible to heat-related illness.
6. Eliminate strenuous activity such as running, biking and lawn care work when it heats up.
7. Eat less foods that increase metabolic activity/heat. Proteins are an example. Increased metabolic heat increases water loss.

Heat Related Illnesses & Their Symptoms

• Sunburn. Redness and pain in the skin. In severe cases there is also swelling, blisters, fever, and headaches.
• Heat Cramps. Heavy sweating and painful spasms usually in the leg or abdomen muscles.
• Heat Exhaustion. The person becomes weak and is sweating heavily. The skin is cold, pale and clammy. The pulse becomes thready. Fainting and vomiting accompanies heat exhaustion.
• Heatstroke/Sunstroke. High body temperature (106 degrees or higher) along with hot dry skin and a rapid and strong pulse. Unconsciousness is possible.

Remember, play it safe this summer for a summer full of fun!