Preventing heat stress - Part II
The long, hot days of summer are here and now is a good time to review methods of avoiding the damaging effects of hot weather.The most dangerous conditions occur when there is no relief from the heat, when both night and daytime temperatures remain above 90 degrees and when the humidity is high. Vulnerable people are quickly worn down under these conditions, and methods of reducing heat stress can mean the difference between life and death. The following is a list of ways to combat the effects of hot weather:
1. Acclimatize to heat. It takes time for the body to accustom itself to hot weather. During acclimatization, certain physical changes take place within the body that reduce the burden which heat places on the heart and blood vessels. As a result of these adjustments, a person is better able to tolerate the heat.
Air-conditioning failure seriously threatens the health of older people because they do not have time to adjust to the sudden increase in temperature.
2. Keep cool in the heat. Spend as much time as possible in cool surroundings - cooler part of the house, air-conditioned church, movie theater, shopping mall or public facilities.
Intermittent use of air-conditioning to keep the temperature below 90 degrees F. is an acceptable alternative to the more expensive constant operation of the system.
3. Use fans. A window fan can be used to draw cool air into the house at night. Closing windows and drawing drapes and shades in the early morning keeps this cooler night air inside the home. Attic fans can help keep temperatures down. Place large blocks of ice in front of electric fans to provide indoor cooling during the heat of the day.
4. Take baths and showers. Cool water removes excess body heat 25 times faster than cool air. It's best to have the water around 75 degrees F. (cool but not cold). Sponge baths are helpful but not as effective. Even wet towels on the body while lying in front of a fan can prove useful.
5. Drink water. Most people do not drink enough liquids. Don't wait until you feel thirsty, when the body is already low on water, before drinking. One should drink more water than is needed to simply satisfy thirst.
6. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing which does not interfere with evaporation.
7. Avoid cooking during the hotter part of the day. Also avoid hot foods and heavy meals during times of hot weather.
8. Salt. Do not take salt tablets without a physician's advice. Also check with your physician before increasing the amount of salt in the diet during hot weather.