Stay safe in summer with these heat health essentials
With summer in full swing and hot days on the horizon it’s important to take some simple steps to stay safe and cool when temperatures soar.
Director of Emergency Services at Alfred Health, A/Prof de Villiers Smit, said the risk of dehydration, particularly during warmer weather, can pose risks of further complications.
“With the arrival of warmer weather, it's crucial to stay hydrated,” A/Prof Smit said. “Dehydration can lead to serious health issues, including heat exhaustion and heatstroke.”
The potential dangers of extreme heat are particularly high for those considered most ‘at-risk’ for heat-related stress and illnesses. This includes:
- People aged 65 and over
- Those with pre-existing medical conditions, such as heart disease and diabetes
- People with disability
- Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers
- Babies and young children
- People who are overweight
- People with substance abuse issues
Health risks due to exposure to high heat can also increase as humidity rates continue to rise. High humidity can act to limit sweat evaporation from the body and impacts our ability to cool down, leading to a potentially deadly increase in core temperatures.
To help you stay safe in warmer weather, A/Prof Smit recommends these key steps:
Stay hydrated
Drink plenty of water in warmer weather, even if you’re not thirsty. This is particularly important for those aged 65 and over, as the aging process exposes us to even greater risk of dehydration due to declines in total body fluid and a diminished thirst response.
“Make sure to drink plenty of water,” says A/Prof Smit. “Especially if you're spending extended periods outdoors.”
Keep cool
You don’t need to beat the heat alone, with air conditioners and fans helpful tools to staying cool on warmer days. Wearing light, loose-fitting clothing, avoiding vigorous exercise and drawing curtains/blinds can also be helpful.
“If you don't have air conditioning, seek out public facilities with air-conditioned spaces during the hottest parts of the day,” recommends A/Prof Smit. “It's also important to modify outdoor activities during extreme heat, so try to schedule workouts and outdoor tasks in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler.”
Be aware of others
Thinking of others during high heat is also important, especially in the case of older adults and young children who might be more susceptible to heat-related health risks.
“Older adults are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses and may need assistance staying cool and hydrated on warmer days,” says A/Prof Smit. “You should also never leave children or pets in a parked car during hot weather, as the temperature inside a vehicle can rise rapidly, leading to life-threatening conditions.”
Plan ahead
Being prepared can be a vital tool to surviving the heat, which might mean monitoring weather forecasts, adapting your plans or simply knowing what to watch out for when temperatures rise.
“Heat-related illnesses are a significant concern during hot weather, so symptoms like headache, dizziness, muscle cramps, and nausea should not be ignored,” A/Prof Smit said. “If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, seek shade, hydrate, and if necessary, seek medical attention.”
Ultimately, A/Prof Smit suggests, staying safe in warmer weather is a community effort.
“Look out for each other, stay informed, and take necessary precautions to enjoy the warm weather safely.”
