Dangerously Hot Heat Index ~ Ways to Stay Safe!

Dangerously Hot Heat Index ~ Ways to Stay Safe!

Summer is upon us. For many around the country, the heat index is dangerously high. During these times, it is very important to stay safe.

Here are some practical tips to stay safe when the heat index is rising to dangerous levels:

• Keep a small cooler of water in your car at all times. You never know when a traffic jam will stall you, you car breaks down, or you see someone who needs some water.
• Wear light colored, light weight clothing.
• When you know you will need to be outside in the heat, prepare by drinking a lot of water the days before.
• Limit exercising during the heat of the day. Your body temperature stays higher for many hours after a workout. 
• Make sure your pets have shade and water or bring them inside.
• Know the signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Becoming pale, shaky, nauseated, rapid or really low pulse with no sweating are all dangerous signs from your body alerting you that you are in trouble.
• Make sure you maintain all of the fluid levels in your vehicle.
• Check swimming pools for water levels. This kind of heat can cause massive evaporation quickly. 
• Keep your AC systems checked and filters cleaned.
• Avoid sugary, diet or caffeine drinks and only drink clear water. These other drinks can leech much needed fluids from your cells.
• Be aware of how your children are doing in the heat. Their little bodies can succumb to heat much faster. This is also true of the elderly.

Be wise this summer and be safe in this heat. Take care and be aware! Happy summer to you all!