This week, our local temperatures are forecast to exceed 100. If you have spent summers in Phoenix and Palm Springs, like me, this will be nothing new. The humidity, of course, adds a new dimension, but most of us “seasoned heat veterans” know just enough to stay out of the heat. You say you do, as well? Fabulous.
However, apparently, some do not. Otherwise, there is no reasonable explanation for the number of 911 calls that relate to heat emergencies. This ranges from the umpire working 4 straight games behind the plate, to the seniors who can’t afford air conditioning, to the guy cleaning out his garage all weekend. We’ll still get numerous 911 calls from folks who “overdo it” this week.
The safety tips, below, remain unchanged over the years. The tips are courtesy of FEMA. However, add to that the concept of “Prehydration”: Before you leave, drink a bottle of water, and go to the bathroom. Then you can go. This week, you should always have a bottle or cup of water in your hand, and be sipping it all day long, even in the office. You never know when your car will break down, or you’ll find yourself outside. Water is free, and you need to pre-hydrate before you go out.
Yes, you’ll pee a lot. But this is the week to Pee. And remember, if you are properly hydrated, your pee will be clear. If you per any color at all, you are dehydrated (the more color in the pee, the more dehydrated you are). Plus, everybody knows that if you wait until you’re thirsty, you’re already dehydrated.
Additionally, please review the tips, below, from FEMA, on how to handle a heat emergency. Be safe, stay cool, and we’ll see you next week!
What you should do if the weather is extremely hot:
- Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun.
- Stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine if air conditioning is not available.
- Consider spending the warmest part of the day in public buildings such as libraries, schools, movie theaters, shopping malls, and other community facilities. Circulating air can cool the body by increasing the perspiration rate of evaporation.
- Eat well-balanced, light, and regular meals. Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician.
- Drink plenty of water. Persons who have epilepsy or heart, kidney, or liver disease; are on fluid-restricted diets; or have a problem with fluid retention should consult a doctor before increasing liquid intake.
- Limit intake of alcoholic beverages.
- Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible.
- Protect face and head by wearing a wide-brimmed hat.
- Check on family, friends, and neighbors who do not have air conditioning and who spend much of their time alone.
- Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles.
- Avoid strenuous work during the warmest part of the day. Use a buddy system when working in extreme heat, and take frequent breaks.
