Sick of The Heat? Tips for Staying Cool

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No, I am not talking about Lebron James in South Beach. This past week has been so hot, no doubt about it. You want to get out and do activities, but this heat is just so intense. Here are some tips for staying cool during these hot days.

With temperatures this week heading towards 100, it is important to remember to keep cool, and to remember the basics of heat safety.

• Know your risk: Although temperature and humidity can increase risk of heat-related illness, so can age, sex, weight, physical fitness, nutrition, alcohol or drug use, or pre-existing diseases like diabetes. How can you prevent or control heat-related illnesses?
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated beverages.  Don't wait until you're thirsty to drink. During heavy exercise in a hot environment, drink two to four glasses of cool fluids each hour.
• Use air conditioning if available: Air conditioning is the best way to stay cool when temperatures rise. If your home does not have air conditioning, visit the library or mall to escape the heat for a few hours.
• Wear loose, lightweight clothing:  Choose lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
• Use sunscreen when outdoors: When in the sun, wear sunscreen of at least SPF 15 and a hat to protect your face and head.
• Limit outdoor activities: Try to limit outdoor activities to morning and evening hours. Try to rest often in shady areas so that your body will have a chance to recover.
• Check on those most vulnerable: If you know someone who is elderly or who has a chronic health condition, check on them at least twice daily to make sure they are staying hydrated and healthy in the heat.

Read more at The Haddonfield Patch