It is the end of July, and in cities everywhere the temperature is near 100 degrees. We are in the dog days of summer, and even on vacation the heat can be too much. Not only is being hot uncomfortable, it can also be dangerous. There are some things you can do to beat the heat and keep safe.
It is a good idea to stay inside when the heat outside is at its peak. Even when you are on vacation at the beach, it is a good idea to go out on the beach in the early morning when the sun is not at its peak. Take a break from the heat mid-day with some indoor activities. While you are outside, keep well hydrated. Drink more liquids then you generally do when you are outside, even if you are not thirsty. Don’t wait until you are thirsty to drink water! Don’t drink alcoholic beverages or drinks with large amounts of sugar in them. These types of drinks can actually dehydrate you, putting you in danger.
Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, including pets. The heat inside a parked vehicle can rise very quickly, even if it isn’t that hot outside. The temperature can rise well over 100 degrees in a closed vehicle, causing heat stroke and even death. Some people are more susceptible to heat stroke, such as infants and people over 65. Make sure to check on those at risk often.
If you must be outside in the heat in the middle of the day, make sure you drink two to four glasses of cool fluids every hour. Wear a hat with a wide brim to protect you from the sun, and make sure you also wear an SPF of 15 or higher. Try to find shady areas in which to rest. On the hottest of days, a swimming pool feels great, or if you don’t have access to a pool, turns your sprinkler on! Take in a movie in the middle of the day, a cold dark room, what could be better on a day that is 100 degrees?