What Factors into heat related illnesses

When the humidity is high, sweat will not evaporate quickly, this prevents the body from releasing heat quickly. High humidity coupled with little or no wind, does not allow the perspiration to evaporate and cool the body. This is a dangerous, maybe even deadly, combination. Other conditions related to risk include: Age, heart disease, excess weight, poor circulation, fever, prescription drugs, alcohol, dehydration, sunburn. 

The elderly, very young, and people with mental illness and chronic diseases are at highest risk.  

However, even young and healthy individuals can succumb to heat if they participate in strenuous physical activities during hot weather. 

HOW DO I PREVENT HEAT RELATED STRESS? 

• Acclimatization – Adjust yourself to the heat through short exposure periods followed by longer exposure until your body is accustomed to the heat. It may take 5-7 days of hot weather exposure before the body undergoes changes that make heat more bearable. 
• Drink lots of water and other liquids – replenish the fluid that you body is losing through sweating. Critical electrolytes such as sodium, potassium and calcium are lost through sweating, so consider using electrolyte drinks to combat heat stress disorders. 
• Education – Know the signs and symptoms of heat stress disorders and act quickly. 
• Use your head – Do Not ignore possible symptoms of heat stress. If you feel very hot, dizzy, nauseous or if your muscles cramp, STOP and cool off.

HEAT STRESS DISORDERS ARE SERIOUS!