Heat Stroke

Now that summer is starting and the weather is getting warmer, there are a few things everyone should be aware of regarding their personal well being in the summer months. One of the largest concerns during the summertime is being aware of heat stroke; this is especially important in children and the elderly. Here you will find a few tips on how to prevent heat stroke:

1. Drink plenty of nonalcoholic fluids, no matter what you are doing. Don't wait until you're feeling thirsty to drink something. One word of warning here: If you have a medical condition that limits your intake of fluids, be sure to consult your doctor on how much you should be drinking during hot weather.
2. Don't drink liquids that contain alcohol or large amounts of sugar. These types of drinks actually cause you to lose more body fluid and typically make you more thirsty. Also, avoid very cold drinks. Drinking a very cold drink quickly is a fast way to stomach cramps.
3. Stay indoors in an air-conditioned location if at all possible during the warmest parts of the day. If your home does not have air conditioning, go to a friends house or even a public location such as a mall or store. Even a few hours spent in an air conditioned environment can help your body stay cooler when you go back out.
4. Electric fans may provide some level of comfort, however when the temperature is in the high 90s, fans will only push the hot air around and will not prevent heat stroke. If you do not have air conditioning and can not get somewhere with one, consider taking a cool shower or bath rather than relying on fans.
5. Wear lightweight (breathable), light-colored (stays cooler), loose-fitting clothing.
6. NEVER leave anyone or pets in a closed, parked vehicle. Even if it's not very hot out, the temperature in a car can climb very rapidly.
7. If you believe someone is suffering from heat stroke, get immediate medical attention.

These are just some of the main tips in helping prevent heat stroke. Remember that certain people (children and elderly) are very susceptible to getting heat stroke and need to be made aware of ways to combat it.

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