Summer heat related illness--how to protect those at risk

Summer continues its relentless heat.  How can we protect those at risk?

Remember to watch out for people who are at risk for heat-illness:  children, the elderly, people with chronic medical conditions (and pets).  They should never be left in cars.   The interior of a vehicle can heat up very quickly when the sun is shining on it.  For example, interior temperatures of a car with windows cracked open can raise almost 20^oF in the first 10 minutes.  The CDC gives this good suggestion:  “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.”   More information can be found at http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/heat_guide.asp

Another excellent article from Yahoo Health gives information about keeping children safe from the heat at http://health.yahoo.net/experts/healthykidshealthyfamily/keeping-them-cool-heat