HT30 V3.0 08/07

11

Preventing Heat-Related Illness

Elderly persons, small children, chronic invalids, those on certain medications or drugs (especially

tranquilizers and anticholinergics), and persons with weight and alcohol problems are particularly

susceptible to heat reactions, especially during heat waves in areas where moderate climate usually

prevails.

Heat Wave Safety Tips

Slow down. Strenuous activities should be reduced, eliminated, or rescheduled to the coolest time of the

day. Individuals at risk should stay in the coolest available place, not necessarily indoors.

Dress for summer. Lightweight, light-colored clothing reflects heat and sunlight, and helps your body

maintain normal temperatures.

Put less fuel on your inner fires. Foods (like proteins) that increase metabolic heat production also

increase water loss.

Drink plenty of water or other nonalcoholic fluids. Your body needs water to keep cool. Drink plenty of

fluids even if you don't feel thirsty. Persons who (1) have epilepsy or heart, kidney, or liver disease, (2) are

on fluid restrictive diets, or (3) have a problem with fluid retention should consult a physician before

increasing their consumption of fluids.

Do not drink alcoholic beverages.

Do not take salt tablets unless specified by a physician. Persons on salt restrictive diets should consult

a physician before increasing their salt intake.

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, spending some time each day

(during hot weather) in an air conditioned environment affords some protection.

Don't get too much sun. Sunburn makes the job of heat dissipation that much more difficult.