Cool Facts for Sizzling Days

Summer is almost here, officially. Unofficially, the temperatures are already soaring in some parts of the U.S.. Be prepared for activity in scorching heat regardless of the season or your climate zone with common sense and easy to implement tips.

When temperatures soar, stay cool and safe with these heat beaters:

• When you work or play in the heat, take a break in the shade every 30 minutes.
• Drink water regularly even if you’re not thirsty. Avoid alcoholic or caffeinated drinks; they can dehydrate you.
• When exercising outdoors, allow time to adjust to the heat. Start with short, lower-intensity periods; gradually increase time and intensity each week.
• In spring and summer, avoid the sun from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., when UV levels are most intense and the sun is high overhead. Keep babies out of direct sunlight.
• Always wear sunscreen outdoors, even if it’s cloudy. Apply it 30 minutes before going out, to allow your skin time to absorb it. Reapply every two hours, including ears, lips and feet. Use sunscreen that blocks UVA and UVB rays with a minimum 30 SPF.
• Wear a hat with a 3-inch brim and sunglasses that block 99 to 100 percent of UV rays.

Watch for heat illness: Symptoms include nausea, dizziness, weakness, extreme sweating, headache and rapid pulse. Rest and cool down in the shade; drink small amounts of water slowly. If you don’t quickly feel better, get urgent medical care.

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