(FOX 9) – Get ready for hot temperatures Monday and Tuesday, which will be a preview of the rest of the month. High temperatures on Monday and Tuesday are expected to be in the mid-90s. Combined with high dew points, temperatures will push the heat index into the triple digits. Additionally, the extreme heat we’re seeing to start the week is what’s in the forecast for the rest of July. And with extreme heat, comes concerns about heat exhaustion and other heat-related illnesses.
Drink more fluids (non-alcoholic), regardless of your activity level. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink. Warning: If your doctor generally limits the amount of fluids you drink or puts you on water pills, ask how much you should drink in hot weather. Don’t drink liquids containing alcohol or large amounts of sugar – these cause you to lose more body fluids. Also, avoid very cold drinks, because they can cause stomach cramps. Stay indoors and if possible stay in an air-conditioned place. If your home doesn’t have air conditioning, go to the mall or the public library – even a few hours spent in the air conditioning can help your body stay cooler when you return to the heat. Call your local health department or Red Cross chapter to see if there are heat shelters in your area. Electric fans may provide comfort, but when the temperature is in the 90s, fans will not prevent heat-related illness. Taking a cool shower or bath or moving to an air-conditioned place is a much better way to cool down. Wear light, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. NEVER leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle. Although anyone can suffer from heat-related illness, some people are at greater risk than others. Check regularly: Infants and young children, People age 65 and older, People with mental illness, and people who are physically ill, especially with heart disease or high blood pressure
If you must be out in the heat
Limit your outdoor activity to morning and evening hours Reduce exercise. If you must exercise, drink two to four glasses of cool, non-alcoholic fluids every hour. A sports drink can replace the salt and minerals you lose through sweat. Warning: If you are on a low-salt diet, talk to your doctor before drinking a sports drink. Remember the warning in the first “tip” (above). Try to rest often, in shady places Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat (also keeps you cooler) and sunglasses and wearing sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher (the most effective products say “broad spectrum” or “UVA/UVB protection ” on their tags).
