Tips to keep in mind for the summer’s heat…

Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink water. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after activities. Avoid alcoholic and caffeinated beverages because they will not truly satisfy your thirst and can cause dehydration.

Stay cool and avoid the mid-day heat. Limit activities in the hot sun to 15-20 minutes at a time to help protect against heat exhaustion. Avoid prolonged sun exposure between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun’s UV rays are the strongest.

Lather up and wear sunscreen! Be sure to use SPF 30 or higher and reapply it every two hours. Ideally, I ounce of sunscreen (about a palmful) should be used to cover at least arms, legs, neck, and face for the average adult.

Dress for the heat. Wear loose-fitting clothes that cover as much skin as possible. Lightweight, light-colored clothing that reflects heat and sunlight and helps maintain normal body temperature. Protect your face and head with a wide-brimmed hat.

Eat for the heat. Eat small meals more often. Avoid foods that are high in protein because they increase metabolic heat. Avoid using salt tablets, unless directed to do so by a physician.

Protect your windows. Hang shades, draperies, awnings, or louvers on windows that receive morning or afternoon sun. Outdoor awnings or louvers can reduce the heat entering the house by as much as 80%.

Conserve electricity. During periods of extreme heat, people tend to use a lot more power for air conditioning which can lead to a power shortage or outage. Vacuum air conditioner filters weekly during periods of high use.

Keep lights turned down or off.
Avoid using the oven.
Learn the symptoms of heat disorders and know how to give first aid.

Let’s not forget about our pets…

STAY PROTECTED… STAY COOL… AND HAVE A SAFE FATHER’S DAY!