HOT WEATHER

HOT WEATHER

 Extremely hot days have the potential to cause adverse health effects.

Who is at risk in hot weather?

All people may feel the effects of extremely hot weather but certain groups are more vulnerable:

• Elderly people (particularly women, those with medical problems, who live alone, are socially isolated or reliant on others)

• Children (especially babies and young children)

• People who work outdoors

• Obese and overweight people

• Hospital inpatient and nursing home residents

• People with medical problems/chronic disease

Protecting yourself and your family in hot weather

• Plan your day to avoid going out during the hottest part of the day

• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Don’t wait until you get thirsty. If going out, take some water with you. Always keep a bottle of water in the car

• Take regular breaks in the shade when outdoors

• Wear light coloured, loose fitting clothing made of natural fibres such as cotton. Place a damp cloth/scarf/handkerchief on the back of the neck – Re-wet as needed

• Park your car in a shady spot or in a covered car park building: never leave children or animals unattended in cars

• Use sunscreen and re-apply regularly. Wear a hat, sunglasses and carry an umbrella to use as a sun shade. Splash or spray some water on arms and feet to cool off

• Avoid alcoholic, caffeinated, hot or sugary drinks. Avoid heavy meals, eat salads and fruits instead

• Have cool showers or baths. Take a dip at the beach or swimming pools to cool off. Always ensure you adhere to water safety practices

• Avoid strenuous outdoor activity or exercise. Try and plan it for early morning or in the evening

When planning trips, take account of possible longer travelling times. Keep your home and office first-aid kit and disaster management packs up to date.

Remember that pets and animals are also prone to heat effects – keep them in the shade and provide plenty of water.

Staying cool indoors when it’s hot outside

•   If the room is cooler than outside, keep windows closed and blinds down. Open the windows once the    temperature outside is cooler

• Use a fan or air-conditioning unit where possible

• Consider using pale curtains or other reflective materials on windows

• Keep curtains closed or drapes drawn in rooms that get a lot of sun

• Try not to use the stove or oven very often

• Move to the coolest room in the house

Older people who live alone may need to be checked on daily to ensure they are well.

How do I help myself or someone who may be suffering from heat-related illness

If you feel weak, anxious, dizzy, have intense thirst and a headache, do the following as soon as possible:

• Move to a cool place

• Drink some water or fruit juice to rehydrate

•      Rest immediately in a cool place if you have painful muscular spasms and drink oral rehydration    solutions containing electrolytes. Medical attention is required if heat cramps are sustained for more    than one

A heat stroke can occur suddenly and may progress rapidly to unconsciousness. If you suspect someone may be suffering the effects of a heat stroke, refer him/her to the hospital.

While waiting for the ambulance to arrive:

• Move the person to somewhere cooler if possible

• Increase ventilation if you’re in a room by opening a window or turning on a fan

• Loosen their clothes, sprinkle with cool water or wrap them in a damp sheet to cool them down

Symptoms and basic management of heat-related conditions

References