HISTORY OF NATIONAL HEAT AWARENESS DAY
This year, May 31 is National Heat Awareness Day. The Occupational Safety And Health Administration and National Health Service (OSHA) uses this day to build awareness for heat danger and its illness. Generally, laborers, shopkeepers, farmers, and employees who work outdoors are more prone to suffer from heat illness than those working indoors.
This post will bring awareness to the illnesses caused due to heat exposure. It will also share some points on keeping your children and pets safe this summer.
RELATED: CHOOSING THE RIGHT SUNGLASSES
Each year so many people die or suffer heat-induced illness. These deaths are easily preventable with the right precautions.
Those working outdoors are more vulnerable to heat. Due to global warming, temperatures have been rising for the past few decades. Recent data shows shocking death tolls due to heat.
The responsibility falls on our shoulders to protect and minimize the harm heat can cause to our environment, and to ourselves. There is a need for awareness in these hot summer temperatures.
Unfortunately, many tend to ignore these dangers hot weather.
BEATING THE HEAT
CHUG IN A LOT OF WATER
This might be the most overrated piece of advice you get. But, honestly, there is no other way around it. Either you beat the heat, or the heat beats you. There is nothing in between.
Make sure you carry a giant bottle of water when you step out. Try to take as much liquid as you can in different forms to keep your body hydrated – orange juice, coconut water, lemonade, or even smoothies can be good choices. Coconut water is the best option, though, because it has a lot of electrolytes to maintain the water balance in our bodies.
WEAR LIGHT COLOR CLOTHING
Cotton clothes are a preferable outfit for summer. They reflect most of the light that falls on our bodies. In addition, their water-absorbing capacity will keep you cool and comfortable.
Make sure you keep comfort at the top of your styling. Loose cotton t-shirts, shorts, and cotton pajamas must be your go-to for this summer.
APPLY SUNSCREEN
The moment you step out of your house and into the heat, remember to apply sunscreen all over any exposed skin.
AVOID GOING OUTDOORS DURING PEAK TIME
Post noon, it’s a big ‘no-no’ for going out. Try to finish your outdoor work before noon or in the evening. Avoiding these peak hours is be major way to protect oneself from the heat.
ARE YOU AT HIGHER RISK?
Everybody is at risk for extreme heat. But the National Weather Service tells us that some groups are at greater risk.
INFANTS AND YOUNG CHILDREN
This age group is particularly more vulnerable to heat as their bodies are less adaptive to the environment than the adults. It’s also advised to keep kids out of parked cars during hot days.
ELDERLY
Those with pre-existing medical conditions or on medications may have serious side effects due to heat exposure.
CHRONIC ILLNESS
People who are suffering from a prolonged disease may be more likely to experience serious side effects during hot days.
PREGNANT WOMEN
Studies have shown that extreme heat exposure can cause adverse effects such as low birth weight, preterm birth, and infant mortality.
Check out more tips for National Heat Awareness Day.