Summer is here – and the weather is only getting hotter! Did you know that heat is the number one weather-related killer in the US? According to the CDC, about 1,220 people in the US die from heat stroke every year.
The good news is that heat-related illness and death are preventable. Our team at Integrity Urgent Care has some simple summer heat tips to help you stay safe and healthy in the scorching heat.
How to stay safe in hot weather
Careful planning is the key to avoiding heat-related illnesses like heat stroke. Follow these safety tips during the hot summer months.
- Stay hydrated – Drink water and sports drinks with electrolytes to help replace the water your body loses while sweating.
- Wear appropriate clothing – Lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing will help you feel cooler. Cotton and linen are more breathable than synthetic fabrics like polyester.
- Avoid direct sun exposure – Avoid outdoor activities between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Instead, try to plan activities for the early morning or late evening.
- Take frequent breaks – Stay in the shade whenever possible and hydrate often. When returning from outside, take cool showers or baths to help cool down your body.
