Health Promotion and Chronic Disease Prevention

Wellness Matters!

July Focus: Heat Safety 

Daily Prevention Strategies:

• Hydrate Constantly: Drink roughly one cup (8 ounces) of water every 20 minutes. Do not wait until you feel thirsty to start drinking. 
• Avoid Dehydrating Fluids: Steer clear of alcohol, heavy caffeine, and highly sugary drinks, which actively drain fluid from your system. 
• Dress Intentionally: Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothing. Dark fabrics absorb solar heat, while tight clothes trap body warmth. 
• Limit Peak Exposure: Avoid strenuous outdoor activities between 11:00 AM and 6:00 PM. Schedule exercise for the early morning or late evening
• Maximize Shade: Rest frequently in shaded zones or air-conditioned environments to allow your core temperature to reset. 

Home and Environmental Safety

• Use Fans Correctly: Do not rely on electric fans as your primary source of cooling if indoor temperatures exceed 100°F (approx. 38°C). In extreme heat, fans simply blow hot air across the body, accelerating dehydration. 
• Block the Sun: Cover your windows with drapes and shades during the brightest parts of the day. 
• Vehicle Zero-Tolerance: Never leave children, vulnerable adults, or pets inside a parked car. Internal car temperatures can spike to fatal thresholds within less than 10 minutes, even with cracked windows.
• Protect Animals: Walk dogs early in the morning. Dark pavement and asphalt absorb immense heat and will severely blister unprotected paw pads.  Provide shelter and water for all pets  
• Check on Vulnerable Neighbors: Dedicate time to call or visit elderly individuals, those living alone, or neighbors without reliable air conditioning. 

Learn More

• National Safety Council
• Heat.gov
• Ready.gov
• National Weather Service