How To Stay Safe In The Heat

Heat is the number one weather-related killer in the United States, claiming more lives each year than floods, lightning, tornadoes and hurricanes combined. But why is excessive heat so dangerous? When the body heats too quickly to cool itself safely, or when you lose too much fluid or salt through dehydration or sweating, your body temperature rises and heat-related illness may develop.

With a Heat Advisory in effect for parts of the Stateline Monday and Tuesday, here are some tips for staying safe in the heat.

Never leave your child unattended in a vehicle, even with the windows down.


Slow down. Reduce, eliminate or reschedule strenuous activities until the coolest time of the day. Children, seniors and anyone with health problems should stay in the coolest available place, not necessarily indoors. 

Dress for summer. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing to reflect heat and sunlight. 

Put less fuel on your inner fires. Foods, like meat and other proteins that increase metabolic heat production also increase water loss. 

Drink plenty of water, non-alcoholic and decaffeinated fluids. Your body needs water to keep cool. Drink plenty of fluids even if you don't feel thirsty. Persons who have epilepsy or heart, kidney or liver disease, are on fluid restrictive diets or have a problem with fluid retention should consult a physician before increasing their consumption of fluids. Do not drink alcoholic beverages and limit caffeinated beverages. 
 
During excessive heat periods, spend more time in air-conditioned places. Air conditioning in homes and other buildings markedly reduces danger from the heat. If you cannot afford an air conditioner, go to a library, store or other location with air conditioning for part of the day. 

Don't get too much sun. Sunburn reduces your body's ability to dissipate heat.