Crash and Burn: Lessons on Heat Stroke

This weekend we'll see some of the hottest days we have seen so far this year. Every year in the United States, more than 600 people are killed by extreme heat. These heat-related deaths and illnesses associated with heat are preventable.
Those most at risk are infants and children up to four years of age, people 65 years of age and older, people who are overweight, athletes, people who work outside, and people who are ill or on certain medications. Read on for some helpful tips to stay safe as the temperature climbs.

What is Heat Stroke?
Heat stroke occurs when the body no longer sweats and the body temperature reaches dangerous levels. Symptoms of heat stroke can include:

• Dry, reddish skin and lack of sweating
• High body temperature
• Strong, rapid pulse
• Chills
• Confusion
• Slurred Speech

Heat exhaustion is the body’s response to the loss of water and salt, typically through sweating. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include:

• Excessive sweating
• Weakness or fatigue
• Dizziness and/or confusion
• Clammy skin
• Muscle cramps
• Flushed complexion

How can I prevent heat related illnesses?

• Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids; drink about 16 ounces before starting and 5 to 7 ounces every 15 or 20 minutes.
  
• Avoid dehydrating liquids. Alcohol, coffee, tea and caffeinated soft drinks can hurt more than help.
  
• Schedule frequent breaks. Take time for rest periods and water breaks in a shaded or air conditioned area.
  
• Avoid direct sun. Find shade or block out the sun if possible.
  
• Use a damp rag. Wipe your face or put it around your neck.
  
• Wear Appropriate Clothing: Choose lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
• Stay Cool Indoors: Stay in an air-conditioned place as much as possible. If your home does not have air conditioning, go to the shopping mall or public library—even a few hours spent in air conditioning can help your body stay cooler when you go back into the heat. Call your local health department to see if there are any heat-relief shelters in your area. Keep in mind: Electric fans may provide comfort, but when the temperature is in the high 90s, they will not prevent heat-related illness. Taking a cool shower or bath or moving to an air-conditioned place is a much better way to cool off. Use your stove and oven less to maintain a cooler temperature in your home.
• Schedule Outdoor Activities Carefully: Try to limit your outdoor activity to when it’s coolest, like morning and evening hours. Rest often in shady areas so that your body has a chance to recover.
• Pace Yourself: Cut down on exercise during the heat. If you’re not accustomed to working or exercising in a hot environment, start slowly and pick up the pace gradually. If exertion in the heat makes your heart pound and leaves you gasping for breath, STOP all activity. Get into a cool area or into the shade, and rest, especially if you become lightheaded, confused, weak, or faint.
• Wear Sunscreen: Sunburn affects your body’s ability to cool down and can make you dehydrated. If you must go outdoors, protect yourself from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and by putting on sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher 30 minutes prior to going out. Continue to reapply it according to the package directions. Look for sunscreens that say “broad spectrum” or “UVA/UVB protection” on their labels- these products work best.
  
• Avoid Hot and Heavy Meals: They add heat to your body!
  
• Do Not Leave Children in Cars: Cars can quickly heat up to dangerous temperatures, even with a window cracked open. While anyone left in a parked car is at risk, children are especially at risk of getting a heat stroke or dying. When traveling with children, remember to do the following: Never leave infants, children or pets in a parked car, even if the windows are cracked open. To remind yourself that a child is in the car, keep a stuffed animal in the car seat. When the child is buckled in, place the stuffed animal in the front with the driver. When leaving your car, check to be sure everyone is out of the car. Do not overlook any children who have fallen asleep in the car.
  

If the unfortunate does happen, you can protect your family with a Life insurance policy from Baker Insurance. Contact us today for a quote or to meet with one of our life insurance experts.

Stay safe!