Tips on staying cool in extreme summer temps
HOLLISTER
– With the high temperatures this week tha tare expected to
continue through the weekend, the San Benito County Public Health
Division and the Office of Emergency Services released some
guidelines to avoid sunburn and heat exhaustion.
– Drink more fluids (nonalcoholic), regardless of your activity
level. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink. If taking water
pills or generally limiting liquid consumption, check with your
doctor on how much to drink. Avoid liquids with caffeine, alcohol
or large amounts of sugar, and very cold drinks.
Tips on staying cool in extreme summer temps
HOLLISTER – With the high temperatures this week tha tare expected to continue through the weekend, the San Benito County Public Health Division and the Office of Emergency Services released some guidelines to avoid sunburn and heat exhaustion.
– Drink more fluids (nonalcoholic), regardless of your activity level. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink. If taking water pills or generally limiting liquid consumption, check with your doctor on how much to drink. Avoid liquids with caffeine, alcohol or large amounts of sugar, and very cold drinks.
– Electric fans may provide comfort, but when the temperature is in the high 90s fans will not prevent heat-related illness. Taking a cool shower or bath, or moving to an air-conditioned place is a much better way to cool off.
-Stay indoors and, if at all possible, stay in an air-conditioned place. If your home does not have air conditioning, go to the shopping mall or public library – even a few hours spent in air conditioning can help your body stay cooler when you go back into the heat.
– Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
– Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat (also keeps you cooler) and sunglasses and by putting on sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher (the most effective products say “broad spectrum” or “UVA/UVB protection” on their labels).
– Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle. This includes pets.
Although any one at any time can suffer from heat-related illness, some people are at greater risk than others. Check regularly on:
– Infants and young children
– People aged 65 or older
– People who have a mental illness
– Those who are physically ill, especially with heart disease or high blood pressure.
Visit adults at risk at least twice a day and closely watch them for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Infants and young children, of course, need frequent watching. For those who need to be in the heat:
– Limit your outdoor activity to morning and evening hours
– Cut down on exercise. If you must exercise, drink two to four glasses of cool, nonalcoholic fluids each hour. A sports beverage can replace the salt and minerals you lose in sweat. If you are on a low-salt diet, talk with your doctor before drinking a sports beverage
– Try to rest often in shady areas
– Cooling shelters will be available as needed. Please stay tuned to KSBW television station and KMPG radio station for emergency information.
For more information about summer heat contact:
– Public Health Division at 637-5367
– San Benito County Office of Emergency Services, Brian Tempero 636-4168
