Tips to stay safe in Colorado’s hot summer months

Yes, Colorado has had an unusually long stretch of damp, cloudy weather in a state that typically enjoys soaring temperatures and plenty of sunshine. But the sunshine is back and temps are rising which, as always, means more time relaxing, exercising and playing in Colorado’s great outdoors.

On the heels of Denver’s third hottest summer in recorded history in 2022, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is predicting 2023 could likely be one of the Top 10 warmest years on record in much of the U.S., and could possibly approach the Top 5, according to scientists.

For people of all ages — and especially older adults — the risks associated with high temperatures and increased UV rays are very real, from small bouts of dehydration to a full-blown, life-threatening medical emergency. A combination of factors make the preparation for higher temps and more time in the sun that much more important.

According to the National Institute on Aging,

A publication of

Mailing Address: 750 W. Hampden Ave., Suite 225 Englewood, CO 80110 Phone: 303-566-4100

To subscribe call 303-566-4100 or visit www.washparkprofile.com/subscribe people age 65 years and older are more prone to heat-related problems, as our bodies do not adjust as well to sudden changes in temperature like they did when we were younger. In addition, older adults are more likely to have chronic medical conditions and/or more likely to be taking prescription medications that can a ect the body’s ability to control its temperature or sweat.

Being overheated for too long or exposed to the sun without protection can cause many health problems including:

• Heat syncope: sudden dizziness that can occur when active in hot weather.

• Heat cramps: painful tightening or spasms of muscles in the stomach, arms or legs.

• Heat edema: swelling in ankles and feet when you get hot.

• Heat rash: skin irritation from heavy sweating that causes red clusters of small blisters that look similar to pimples on the skin.

• Heat exhaustion: a warning that your body can no longer keep itself cool. You might feel thirsty, dizzy, weak, uncoordinated and nauseated. You may sweat a lot. Your body temperature may stay normal, but your skin may feel cold and clammy. Some people with heat exhaustion have a rapid

LINDA SHAPLEY Publisher lshapley@coloradocommunitymedia.com

MICHAEL DE YOANNA Editor-in-Chief michael@coloradocommunitymedia.com

CHRISTY STEADMAN Editor csteadman@coloradocommunitymedia.com

LINDSAY NICOLETTI Operations/ Circulation Manager lnicoletti@coloradocommunitymedia.com

ERIN ADDENBROOKE Marketing Consultant eaddenbrooke@coloradocommunitymedia.com

AUDREY BROOKS Business Manager abrooks@coloradocommunitymedia.com pulse. Heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke. If you or someone you are with begin to show any signs of heat exhaustion, move to a cooler environment as quickly as possible — preferably a well air-conditioned room. Loosen clothing, sponge o or bathe with cool water, lie down and rest.

• Heat stroke: a medical emergency in which the body’s temperature rises above 104°F. Signs of heat stroke are fainting; confusion or acting strangely; not sweating even when it’s hot; dry, ushed skin; strong, rapid pulse; or a slow, weak pulse. When a person has any of these symptoms, they should seek medical help right away and immediately move to a cooler place, such as under shade or indoors. ey should also take action to lower their body temperature with cool clothes, a cool bath or shower, and fans.

But the added risks don’t mean you have to stop doing the things you love. It just means taking the time to prepare for your outdoor fun.

Some of the most e ective preventive measures include:

• Wear sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher).

• Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose tting,

SEE SUMMER, P9

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