Record breaking heat throughout much of the country brings the danger of heat related illness. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) gives this information: “Getting too hot can make you sick…Heat exposure can even kill you; it caused 8015 deaths in the United States from 1979 to 2003.” How does a person keep cool when working in the hot weather?
If possible, stay in an air conditioned environment. Steps you can take to protect yourself from becoming overheated includes drinking plenty of liquids (non-caffeine and non-alcoholic are best fluid replacements), replacing salt and minerals (sports drinks replace salt and minerals we lose when sweating), and pacing yourself (take breaks in a cooler environment if possible). People who work out in the weather need to protect their skin by using sunscreen and light-weight, light-colored and loose-fitting clothing including a wide-brimmed hat. You see many construction workers starting very early in the morning so their day ends before the hottest heat and highest humidity. If possible, have a buddy working with you during the heat and watch out for each other’s health. For more information, http://www.cdc.gov/Features/ExtremeHeat/?source=govdelivery
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