Get your cooling towel
Heat-related illnesses, such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke, happen when your body can’t cool itself. They are most common this time of year.
Here are signs to watch out for:
- Heat cramps: painful contractions.
- Heat exhaustion: nausea, headache, fatigue and/or weakness, irritability, dizziness, confusion, thirst, or signs of dehydration like a darkening of the urine.
- Heatstroke: hot or flushed skin, a fast heart rate, headache, nausea, dizziness, confusion or loss of consciousness.
If you experience any of these symptoms at work, call your site’s emergency number right away to get quick medical attention. At home, call 911.
Heat illnesses are preventable. Stay out of the sun during the summer heat, stay hydrated, watch for urine, that is apple juice color or darker, don’t wear restrictive clothing, and avoid alcohol. If you suspect someone is experiencing heat exhaustion or heat stroke, get them cooled off promptly and call for help.
Who’s at risk
The elderly, people with chronic medical conditions, children, especially student-athletes, and pets are at higher risk for severe heat-related illnesses.
How to stay safe
- Check the temperature before you go outside.
- Watch for signs of heat-related illness.
- When it’s hot outside, avoid outdoor activities between the hours of 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
- Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink water – as that can be a sign of dehydration. Drink at least one glass of water – or more – an hour.
- If you don’t have a cooling towel, you can get one at The Y @ Work or from your WellWithin site leader, while supplies last.