The peak summer months are approaching, bringing along severe heat and humidity. With this, our risk of falling prey to extreme weather increases. It is easy to succumb to the heat and risk dehydration, overheating, heat exhaustion, and eventually a heat stroke. Heatstroke is a medical crisis that can lead to severe damage of vital organs and, if left untreated, can be the eventual cause of death. Extreme heat can also exacerbate preexisting medical conditions.
Extreme weather and heat can affect people of all ages, genders, and sizes. However, certain people are more vulnerable and need to take extra precautions. They can include those suffering from previous health problems, people who struggle with weight, people living in hot climates, and people above the age of 60. Planning ahead, checking weather reports, and avoiding rigorous activities are the best ways to ensure spending a safe summer. The article below contains tips pertaining to such precautions and how best to utilize your facilities to keep you and your family safe.
Basic Necessary Precautions
Staying hydrated is key, and drinking healthy fluids is a step toward the right direction. Consuming cold drinks, even when you’re not feeling thirsty, helps ensure that your body remains cool. Avoid foods and drinks that can dehydrate your body and take too long to digest. Take regular cold showers and splash your face with water every few hours. This keeps you fresh and regulates your body temperature.
Try to remain indoors as much as possible and keep your curtains drawn to filter out sunlight. When spending time outside, remain under the cool shade, use an umbrella, or wear sunglasses or a hat to protect yourself from the sun’s rays. Wearing a good sunscreen with a strong SPF rating will protect skin from UV ray damage.
A lot of people find comfort in wearing light-colored, loose-fit clothing with breathable fabrics suited for summer. In addition to this, avoid exhausting activities, such as heavy lifting, renovations, outdoor sports, and exercise, as exhaustion paired with excessive heat can take a toll on your mental health and mood.
When indoors, it is best to use fans and air conditioners. Fortunately, a lot of buildings nowadays are centrally cooled, giving you more access to areas with more controlled temperatures. Investing in a good air conditioning system can drastically improve your summer experience and keep you at ease and comfortable. If you do your research thoroughly, you will definitely find professional, licensed, and experienced air conditioning companies that are more than happy to offer their services to you.
Precautions for the Vulnerable
Heat exhaustion affects certain age groups more severely than others, particularly children and elders. People aged 60 and above are at a higher risk of suffering from harsh heat due to their decreased heat tolerance. Friends and families are advised to carry out necessary tasks and chores, including grocery shopping, for elders. It may help to hire a nurse to look after ones who are particularly ill and in need of constant supervision. Infants and toddlers need to be carefully chaperoned as they are less mindful about fluid intake and often fail to notice the initial symptoms that set in. Children should be advised to stay indoors and wear short and light clothing. People who remain highly active throughout the year should increase their fluid intake and take frequent breaks. They should also avoid exertion on days when the heat is at its peak.
Practical Resources to Utilize
Regularly checking weather updates is key to avoid days with a higher risk of a heatwave and a high UV index. Subscribe to an authentic weather report website or newsletter to get daily updates. Make sure you and your loved ones consume healthy foods and have a high fluid intake ask well. Contact health professionals and local hospitals in case of emergencies, and always keep first aid on hand. It is advisable to consult a nutritionist for loved ones suffering from a particular illness that can take a toll on them during the heat. Stocking up on cold drinks and medication beforehand is a smart decision, as it helps avoid unnecessary shopping trips in the heat. In addition, store foods, medications, and drinks in refrigerators and coolers to keep them fresh.
There are plenty of ways to keep yourself and your loved ones safe during extreme heatwaves. For instance, you can contact maintenance personnel to check the efficiency of your air conditioners and fans so that they run smoothly during the day. Certain renovations, such as installing tinted windows, room coolers, and cold water pumps, can also help you handle the summer better. Prioritize the safety of those who are more at risk of experiencing heatstroke, and maximize the resources you can use to stay cool and in good health. Remember that planning ahead can help you avoid any problems in the summer.
