Summer's Coming! How to Beat the Heat

Summer is right around the corner. Then the heat is on! Heat exhaustion can come on very quickly. It is important for you to know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and ways to avoid getting overheated this summer.

Summertime means swimming, golfing, boating and trips to the lake. All of these things can contribute to heat exhaustion if you are not careful. When your having fun, especially swimming, it is very easy to realize you are getting overheated. There are several precautions you can take to prevent this.

One of the most important things you can do is use sunscreen when you are outside. A sunscreen with a high SPF is the best. Wearing a hat is also a good idea. Don't forget the lips! You can buy lip balm that has SPF in it.

Try to avoid being in the sun at the hottest part of the day which is usually 12:00 p.m. to around 3:00 p.m. Of course I realize that is not always possible.

Drink plenty of fluids. Water preferably. Sodas and even sports drinks are high in sugar and sodium and is not the best choice for hydration. Simple water is the best.

Keep cool! Try to stay cool when you have to be outside. Have a fan or something nearby to keep you cool. You can even by a handheld fan that sprays water. I use that a lot when I am laying out by the pool.

Take breaks. I know in the summertime when I am working outside I tend to just keep trucking along wanting to get done with what needs to get done. Be sure to make time for a break. It is important to rest and get cooled off and drink plenty of water. I know it is hard for some of us, but it is really important to pace ourselves when working outside. You can buy a cool wrap at your local store that you wet and wrap around your neck. It is a great way to keep cool.

Do things in early morning. When you can, it is a great idea to do yard work and other activities in the morning when it's not as hot. Try to avoid doing your outside activities during the hottest part of the day.

In case you do ever overheat here are some signs and symptoms to watch for that may be indicative to being overheated and possibly suffering from heat exhaustion. One thing to look for is heavy sweating. Now if you normally sweat a lot you may need to watch for other signs such as muscle cramps, weakness and headaches. Source: medicinenet.com

Be safe this summer and have fun!