Friday, July 6, 2007

Preventing Heat-related Illnesses


It is definitely Summer now!

With all this sun and high temperatures, it can be easy to get sunburned or develop heat-related problems like heat exhaustion.

Avoid staying out in the sun too long; wear a hat, sunglasses and protective clothing.

Drink enough fluids to urinate every hour or two and to produce clear or light yellow urine.

Also, have a meal or some salty snack foods to replace salts you lose in your sweat. Do not use salt tablets: overly rapid changes in sodium or potassium levels can interrupt heart rhythm and can even be fatal.

Sunscreens that contain micronized zinc oxide are the best at preventing sunburn and also skin cancers. Remember to reapply sunscreen every 3-4 hours and after swimming.

If you don't have air conditioning, take advantage of air conditioning elsewhere by going to a movie or visiting the library. Or, enjoy a swim at the local pool!

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