The crazy lady on the left isn’t a great role model for beating the heat! I bet if we check back in five minutes she’ll be lying in a heap on the sand.
The heat index is from 105 to 110 for today!
The heat is no joke and can cause serious health problems. At the very least, overexposure can sap your energy and leave you feeling less than your usual sparkling self!
Are you at risk?
Anyone who spends too much time in the heat outdoors (or indoors, if you lost power) is vulnerable. Too much time in the sun, working or exercising outdoors can trigger heat exhaustion or heat stroke. It can happen even if you are in good condition!
I am finding that just a twenty minute walk with my dogs makes me feel slightly wilted and definitely ready to get back in the AC! (And don’t forget that pets, especially dogs can really suffer from the heat.
Read more: Cool the pets!
What are the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke?
- Heat exhaustion is the first stage. It can cause nausea, fatigue, headache, muscle cramps and weakness.
- When heat exhaustion goes untreated, the result can be heat stroke a more serious condition which can be critical. The symptoms are the same, but more severe. The person may become disoriented and weak.
The hallmark sign is that sweating stops. The victim is then unable to cool off and core temperature starts to rise. This situation requires immediate medical attention.
Here are a list of precautions from the District of Columbia government:
In the District, the heat emergency plan is activated when the heat index (an accurate measure of how hot it really feels when the effects of humidity are added to the high temperatures) reaches 95 degrees.
In the event of extreme heat, you should take the following precautions:
- Stay indoors as much as possible.
- Turn on the air-conditioner or fan.
- DO NOT leave children or pets in vehicles.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Wear light-colored, lightweight and loose-fitting clothes.
- Apply sunscreen at least 20 minutes before going outside (SPF 15-30 is best).
- Limit exposure to the sun (the sun is most powerful between 10 am and 3 pm).
- Watch for heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
- Wear loose, light colored clothing that allows sweat to evaporate.
- When possible, limit outdoor activity to early or late in the day.
- Take time to regularly cool off.
- Thirst is not a good way to gauge dehydration. Drink whether you are thirsty or not.
- Don’t drink too much water. That can dilute your electrolytes, causing cramps and dehydration. Alternate a sports drink with your water.
- Most sports drinks only contain potassium, salt and sweetener. ENDURA contains seven electrolyte minerals identical to those in your muscles and the right vitamins to support rehydration.
- Unlike other sports drinks, ENDURA contains magnesium especially to prevent muscle cramps.It is sweetened with natural fructose, so it will not cause weight gain as drinks with sugar or high fructose corn syrup can.
- ENDURA boosts your energy level and endurance as it prevents dehydration.
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