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Be cool in
the San Antonio heat
Heat-related injuries can occur any time the body cannot effectively
cool itself. It does not have to be more than 100
degrees outside before a heat-related injury can occur. Last summer, EMS responded to 204 calls
for heat-related injuries. Despite this alarming statistic,
heat-related injuries are vastly under-recognized and under-reported.
The elderly, very young, those who are
sick or without access to air conditioning are most severely affected
by heat. Children left in closed vehicles, even for a short period of
time, also are at great risk.
What causes heat injuries?
How can you prevent heat-related
injuries?
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Drink water often. Don't wait to become
thirsty.
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Type of drink: cool water (45 to 55
degrees Farenheit).
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Before outdoors activities: drink 12 to
20 ounces at least 30 minutes before.
-
During outdoors activities: drink 3 to 6
ounces every 15 to 30 minutes.
-
After outdoors activities: drink to
satisfy thirst, then drink a little more.
-
Wear loose fitting clothing that does
not restrict your movement and allows for a good circulation of air.
-
Avoid the extreme heat of mid-day. Plan
outdoors activities around the cooler parts of the day
-
Avoid sunburn. Sunburn will draw fluid
from all areas of your body in an effort to replenish moisture to the
skin .
-
Schedule plenty of rest in cool and
shaded areas.
-
Adjust to the environment. Slowly warm
up to our warm days.
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Avoid caffeine, alcohol and sugary
drinks like soda.
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Don't ignore the warning signs.
What are the warning signs and symptoms?
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Thirst
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Headache
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Nausea
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Muscle cramps
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Dizziness
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Weakness
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Confusion
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Hot, dry skin
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Rapid breathing
How do you treat heat-related injuries?
-
Lie or sit down in a cool, shaded area
with good air circulation.
-
Elevate the feet.
-
Drink plenty of water.
-
Use fans or other cooling devices to
help reduce body temperature.
-
Call EMS.
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