SAFETY IN THE HEAT

By Connie Hogue, Vice President of Human Resources & Safety

Safety should be a consistent thought in your mind. We often fail to realize just how fragile our lives are and how quickly they can change. Something as simple as being outside on a hot summer day can be life-threatening.

Each year, hundreds of people die as a result of prolonged exposure to extremely hot temperatures. Although the human body can regulate its temperature when producing sweat, excessive amounts of sweat can lead to heat cramps and heat exhaustion. If the symptoms are not treated in time and sweating has subsided, the chances of heat stroke are inevitable.

HEAT CRAMPS

Heat cramps are usually the first sign of heat-related illnesses. These muscle cramps are painful spasms that travel throughout your arms, legs and abdomen. They are caused by frequent sweating and dehydration.

To help alleviate the cramps and stop the muscle spasms, apply pressure and gently massage the affected area. Take small and spaced-out sips of water (or drinks that contain electrolytes). If you start to feel nauseous, stop drinking. If your cramps last more than one hour, get medical help right away.

HEAT EXHAUSTION

Heat exhaustion arises when the body loses large amounts of water and salt and there are not enough liquids being consumed to replace the electrolytes that were lost from sweating.

The symptoms include:

• Pale skin

• Muscle cramps

• Fatigue or weakness

• Headache, dizziness or fainting

• Nausea or vomiting

• Rapid heart rate

If you experience any of the symptoms associated with heat exhaustion, you should:

• Move out of the sun and into a shaded or air-conditioned area

• Drink water

• Place cold and wet towels on the body and take a cool shower (if possible)

If the symptoms of heat exhaustion are ignored, you could have heat stroke.

HEAT STROKE

A heat stroke occurs when the body temperature rapidly increases within a short period of time, typically within 10 to 15 minutes.

The symptoms include:

• High body temperature (104 degrees or higher)

• Hot, flushed and dry skin

• Increased heart rate

• Headache, dizziness or fainting

• Irrational behavior or confusion

• Convulsions or unresponsiveness

If you experience any of the symptoms of a heat stroke, you must:

• Call 911 immediately

• Move to a cool location and remove any unnecessary clothing

• Apply cold water to the body through immersion, cold showers or wet towels, until the temperature drops to 101 degrees

• Monitor your breathing

If the warning signs of a heat stroke are not taken seriously and there is a delay in receiving medical treatment, it can cause permanent damage or death.

Fortunately, heat-related illnesses can be prevented. To prevent falling victim to the heat you must:

• Drink plenty of water (even if you are not thirsty)

• Wear loose, lightweight and light-colored clothing

• Limit your exposure time outside on hot days (avoid the hottest time of day between 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.)

• Take breaks and rest in air-conditioned areas

Knowing the difference between heat exhaustion and heat strokes allows you to understand the crucial steps to take in case you ever find yourself or someone else in a situation when hot temperatures become hazardous.