Prepare for the Hot June Weather!

The predictions for the weather this June are more times than none in the triple digits. Make the necessary preparations for the summer weather to protect the your health. Here are some helpful tips to help you prepare for the summer heat.

1. Drink plenty of water, even if you do not feel thirsty.
2. Avoid caffeine.
3. Wear lightweight, light colored, loose fitting clothing.
4. Slow down, stay indoors, and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day.

Here are additional tips to help you prepare for the summer heat.

Extreme Heat Preparedness Checklist
Build a disaster supply kit and make a family emergency plan
If installing window air conditioners, install them snugly and insulate if necessary
Check air-conditioning ducts for proper insulation
Install temporary window reflectors (for use between windows and drapes), such as aluminum foil-covered cardboard, to reflect heat back outside
Weather-strip doors and sills to keep cool air in
Cover windows that receive morning or afternoon sun with drapes, shades, awnings or louvers — outdoor awnings or louvers can reduce the heat that enters a home by up to 80%
Keep storm windows up all year
Listen to local weather forecasts and stay aware of upcoming temperature changes
Know those in your neighborhood who are elderly, young or in poor health — they are more likely to become victims of excessive heat and may need help
Be aware that people living in urban areas may be at greater risk from the effects of a prolonged heat wave than are people living in rural areas
Get trained in first aid to learn how to treat heat-related emergencies
Stay Safe During the Heat

“When the weather is hot, keep a cool mind. When the weather is cold, keep a warm heart.”

— anonymous

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The Red Cross recommends taking these steps to stay safe during the heat:

Listen to NOAA Weather Radio for critical updates from the National Weather Service
Never leave children or pets alone in enclosed vehicles
Eat small meals and eat more often
Avoid extreme temperature changes
Limit intake of alcoholic beverages
Drink plenty of water, even if you do not feel thirsty, and avoid drinks with caffeine
Stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine if air conditioning is not available
Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing
Slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day
Use a buddy system when working in excessive heat
Take frequent breaks if working outdoors
Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning, who spend much of their time alone or who are more likely to be affected by the heat
Check on animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat, and ensure they have water and a shady place to rest

First Aid For Heat-Related Illness
Conditions Symptoms First Aid
Sunburn Skin redness and pain, possible swelling, blisters, fever, headaches – Take a shower using soap to remove oils that may block pores, preventing the body from cooling naturally.

• Apply dry, sterile dressings to any blisters, and get medical attention.
  Heat Cramps Painful spasms, usually in leg and abdominal muscles; heavy sweating – Get the victim to a cooler location.
• Lightly stretch and gently massage affected muscles to relieve spasms.
• Give sips of up to a half glass of cool water every 15 minutes. (Do not give liquids with caffeine or alcohol.)
• Discontinue liquids, if victim is nauseated.
  Heat Exhaustion Heavy sweating but skin may be cool, pale, or flushed. Weak pulse. Normal body temperature is possible, but temperature will likely rise. Fainting or dizziness, nausea, vomiting, exhaustion, and headaches are possible. – Get victim to lie down in a cool place.
• Loosen or remove clothing.
• Apply cool, wet clothes.
• Fan or move victim to air-conditioned place.
• Give sips of water if victim is conscious.
• Be sure water is consumed slowly.
• Give half glass of cool water every 15 minutes.
• Discontinue water if victim is nauseated.
• Seek immediate medical attention if vomiting occurs.
  Heat Stroke (a severe medical emergency) High body temperature (105+); hot, red, dry skin; rapid, weak pulse; and rapid shallow breathing. Victim will probably not sweat unless victim was sweating from recent strenuous activity. Possible unconsciousness. – Call 9-1-1 or emergency medical services, or get the victim to a hospital immediately. Delay can be fatal.
• Move victim to a cooler environment.
• Removing clothing
• Try a cool bath, sponging, or wet sheet to reduce body temperature.
• Watch for breathing problems.
• Use extreme caution.
• Use fans and air conditioners.