Stay Safe in the Heat

2012-07-06T00:00:00

This weekend temperatures are expected to reach record levels.  Here are a few tips for staying safe in the heat. 

Try to stay indoors, preferably in an air conditioned area. If you do not have access to air conditioning in your home, head to a public library, a nearby store, the mall, or catch a movie at the theater.  If you have to be outside, here are some helpful tips for staying as cool as possible:

Stay hydrated! Drink lots of water throughout the day. It is also a good idea to avoid beverages with caffeine, alcohol, or lots of sugar, as these types of drinks do not help you to stay hydrated.

Wear lightweight, light colored, loose-fitting clothing.

Try to avoid the sun for long periods of time – keep to the shade if you are outside.

Keep the strenuous activity to a minimum – early mornings and late evenings are the best times to exercise as that is when the air will be coolest.

Be aware of the signs of heat exhaustion, some of which include: feeling faint or dizzy, nausea, heavy sweating, rapid or weak heartbeat, low blood pressure, heat cramps, headache, and  fatigue. If you notice these symptoms in yourself or a friend, lay down and elevate the feet, drink cool water, cool the body down by spraying or sponging with cool water. Be sure to keep a close eye on how the person is feeling and if the symptoms to do not improve or deteriorate, call 9-1-1. 

For additional information and tips, call the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging http://www.pcacares.org/News_List.aspx?newsID=50N6H5M26&orgID=230Q26D15H53
HEATLINE at 215-765-9040

The Philadelphia Corporation for Aging will have trained counselors available to answer your questions as well as City Health Department nurses who will be able to speak with callers about heat related medical problems. Mobile relief teams from the Health Department will respond to situations requiring intervention, and 911 will be called for emergencies.