As the weather heats up in Jefferson County, it is important to know how to keep yourself cool. Heat-related deaths and illnesses are preventable if you follow proper safety tips. Taking measures to stay cool, being aware of the different types of heat-related illnesses and ensuring those around you are safe are all ways in which individuals can keep cool during the summer heat.
Be aware of the signs associated with heat-related illnesses.
There are many symptoms of heat-related illnesses that one might experience, including a high body temperature, dizziness, heavy sweating, and blisters. Be aware of the different types of heat-related illnesses, like heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat cramps, sunburn, and heat rash, and what to do when experiencing these symptoms. Find out more information regarding heat-related illnesses here: https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/pdf/Heat_Related_Illness.pdf
Stay hydrated.
Not energy drinks. Not Alcohol. Water. Drinking enough fluids and hydrating before, during, and after work or school is one of the most important things you can do to prevent heat illness, and water is one the best ways to reach sufficient levels of hydration that will last in the heat. With water, it is also important to eat regular meals to replace salt levels lost while sweating. Find out more information on how to stay hydrated during the summer months here: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/mining/UserFiles/works/pdfs/2017-126.pdf
Stay inside if possible.
Staying inside in an air-conditioned location for as long as possible is the best way to ensure you stay cool. If you do not have air-conditioning in your home, staying in a public facility that is air-conditioned may reduce your risk for potential heat-related illnesses. Be sure to also check on a friend or neighbor to ensure they are staying cool as well. For more general tips on staying cool, find out more information here: https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/features/extremeheat/index.html#:~:text=Stay%20in%20an%20air%2Dconditioned,light%2Dcolored%20clothing%20and%20sunscreen.
As the weather heats up, leaving unattended pets in your car can be life-threatening for your furry friend. Even parking in a shady spot and leaving your windows rolled down is not enough to ensure pets are kept cool. Be aware of the possible signs of heat stress if your pet is exposed to higher temperatures, like heavy panting, vomiting, or a rapid pulse. If you do determine your pet is overheated, move them to a cooler area and follow proper emergency protocols as soon as possible.
Find out more information about how to take care of your pet during the summer here: https://www.humanesociety.org/sites/default/files/docs/unattended-pets-hot-parked-car.pdf
Don’t have air-conditioning in your home? Follow this link to find cooling centers available in Missouri: https://www.211helps.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Cooling-Site-with-KC-6.12.22.pdf