Cooling down in the summer sun
Summer is here, but don’t let the heat get the best of you! Steer clear of heat exhaustion and heat stroke by keeping your body temperature cool with a few helpful habits:
- Stay hydrated. Drink two to four cups of water every hour. Your body needs more water than usual when in the sun because you lose more fluids through sweating.
- Ditch the caffeine. Avoid alcohol or caffeinated beverages when out in the sun. Caffeine increases your risk for dehydration.
- Dress light. Wear light-colored, loose clothing when out in the heat. A brimmed hat is even good to keep the sun out of your face and help you stay cooler.
- Cool down. Take cooler baths or showers on a hot day to help you cool down. If you’re busy, try doing more activities inside a temperature-controlled or air-conditioned environment. Anything to stay cool and keep your body temperature down.
- Stay out of closed cars. Never leave children, infants, adults or pets alone in a closed, parked car. The temperature inside a closed car can become very hot, instantly causing heat-related illnesses.
Generally, a heat stroke can be much more serious than heat exhaustion.
If you’re experiencing heat exhaustion, sit down in a shady or cooler area and drink a water or sports drink to help rehydrate yourself, but if you’re experiencing a heat stroke, seek medical attention immediately.
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