What is Heat Related Illness

WHAT A SCORCHER!

You knew it was going to be a hot day but with this humidity over 90 degrees and no wind, it is hot.  You reach for the wrench to finish your job and you start to feel lightheaded.  It’s probably because you haven’t eaten much this morning.  You can make it until lunch.

IT’S TEN O’CLOCK AND YOU DON’T FEEL ANY BETTER

 In fact you are feeling worse.  Your breathing has increased, you are sweating profusely, and your mouth is dry.  SOMETHING IS CLEARLY WRONG.

 You start to climb down from the equipment you are working on and you are almost too weak to move.  You feel like you are going to vomit.  With no control over your movements, you fall to the deck.  Those around you are trying to get your attention but you can not understand them. 

What is Extreme Heat?

Temperatures that hover 10 degrees Fahrenheit or more above the average high temperature for the region and last for several weeks are defined as extreme heat. Humid or muggy conditions, add moisture near the ground. 

During Hot Weather

To protect your health when temperatures are extremely high, remember to keep cool and use common sense when working in the heat.  The following tips are important: 

• Drink plenty of fluids – You will need to increase your fluid intake, regardless of your activity level.  Do not wait until you are thirsty to drink.  During heavy exercise in a hot environment, drink 2 to 4 glasses (16-32 ounces) of cool fluids each hour.

 Warning: If your doctor generally limits the amount of fluid you drink or has you on water pills, ask the doctor how much fluid you should drink while the weather is hot. Do not drink liquids that contain alcohol, or large amounts of sugar – these actually cause you to lose more body fluids. Also, avoid very cold drinks, because they may cause stomach cramps.