5 Tips to Stay Safe During a Heat Wave
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Incredible hot temperatures have been shattering records during the summer of 2019 across the United States. In fact, a heat wave during Memorial Day weekend set record temps throughout the Southeastern U.S. In Savannah, Georgia, the mercury soared to 102 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) on May 26, becoming the hottest day in May there since temperatures have been recorded. Then in mid-July, more than 200 million people, from the central U.S. to the East Coast, were affected by yet another blast of scorching heat.
But it’s not just in the U.S. A heat wave in June 2019 set new record highs in eight European countries, as well. And France hit an all-time record high when temperatures soared to 114.6 degrees Fahrenheit (45.8 Celsius) in Gallargues-le-Montueux, in southern France.
While you may think a bit of time in the sun may be fun, time outdoors during a heat wave can be deadly. The World Health Organization says exposure during these particular heat waves can cause exhaustion, confusion or even heart attacks, and can exacerbate existing health conditions such as cardiovascular and respiratory diseases.
But it’s relatively easy to prevent these types of adverse health effects during a heat wave with best practices, and if we just look out for our friends, family and neighbors.
You’d think it would be easy to define what a heat wave is, but actually it isn’t. Not even the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has a standard definition for heat wave. But Science Direct defines it like this:
Though defining what constitutes a heat wave might be difficult, agreeing that they are increasing seems to be easy. The U.S. Global Change Research Program Climate Science Special Report shows that surface air temperature has increased by about 1.8 degrees Fahrenheit (1.0 degree Celsius) between 1901 and 2016. And the report shows that the current time period is the warmest in the history of modern civilization. During the last few years, the world has experienced the warmest temperatures on record. June 2019, for example, was the warmest June ever. These weather trends, and heat waves, are expected to continue, according to the Global Change Report.
So what is a human to do? How should we plan to manage in the future when these scorching temperatures become, gasp, the norm? One thing is to have a heat wave safety plan and a healthy dose of respect for the destructive potential of this form of extreme weather. Here are five heat wave safety tips to help you deal with the dangers.
It may seem like a no brainer, but during a heat wave, you have to dress appropriately. Wear loose, light-colored clothing; UV-protective and moisture-wicking clothing are best if you have to work or be outside. This will help protect your from sunburn and help absorb sweat to keep you a little cooler. Also be sure to protect your face, hands and any other exposed skin with sunscreen. And wear a hat and sunglasses.
If possible, take part in outdoor activities during the morning hours, or postpone them until evening when temperatures are cooler. Take frequent breaks in the shade. If you’re working outside in the heat, and the activity makes your heart pound or you’re gasping for breath, stop and get inside to cool off and rest, especially if you feel lightheaded, confused or faint. Use the buddy system, too. If you’re working in the heat, check on your co-workers — and have them check in on you. Heat-related illness can make you confused or even lose consciousness.
Perspiration is your body’s way of staying cool, but that moisture loss has to be replenished regularly. If you you have to be outside during a heat wave, it’s imperative to drink up, even if you’re not thirsty. Avoid sugary or alcoholic drinks; these will actually make you lose more fluids. You also want to stick to drinks that aren’t super cold. That sounds crazy, right? But icy cold water can actually cause stomach cramps. If you’re on a fluid restrictive diet or have a problem with fluid retention, definitely talk to your doctor before drinking more than your normally prescribed amount.
Ideally during a heat wave, you want to say indoors where there’s air conditioning. If that’s not possible, try to go to a public place that has A/C, like a library, mall or a movie theater, even if it’s just for a few hours. Many cities will open up shelters during heat waves to provide citizens with relief, especially in areas where air conditioning isn’t prevalent. So take advantage of a shelter if you must. You can also use fans, but just keep in mind when temperatures are in the 90s or higher, fans won’t prevent heat-related illness. Taking a cool shower or bath is a much better option. Eat only light, cool foods such as fruit and salads. They’re easier to digest than hot, heavy meals, and your home won’t heat up when you prepare them.
Heat-related illness can affect anyone, but some people are particularly at risk. If you live with, or know people, who fit into any of these categories, check on them frequently during a heat wave.
Of course it goes without saying you should never leave children or pets in a car, as temps can soar inside even with a window cracked, heat wave or not. The CDC suggests we monitor adults at risk at least twice a day for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke, and infants and young children, even more frequently.
Last editorial update on Jul 23, 2019 05:33:36 pm.
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