Summer Tips to Beat the Heat
For most of the country, the threat of heat-related overexertion escalates in July, especially for anyone
working in the summer sun. When temperatures are more than 10°F above average for several days in a row, it’s easy
to suffer from dehydration or sunburn without even realizing the change.
The National Safety Council urges people who work outside or enjoy outdoor recreational activities such as golf
or gardening to:
- Drink plenty of fluids. Your best choices to replace the water, salt and minerals your body loses are cool (not cold)
water, fruit juice or sports drinks with electrolytes.
- Skip alcoholic and caffeinated beverages. During strenuous activity, these beverages will dehydrate rather than
replenish you.
- Eat light. Consuming smaller, well-balanced meals more often and avoiding heavy-protein diets will minimize your
body’s heat production and water loss.
- Reduce strenuous activities or reschedule them for the coolest times of day.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing that reflects heat and sunlight.
- Prevent sunburn. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 about 20 minutes before sun exposure.
It’s also important during a heat wave to confirm the well-being of your employees, family members and neighbors who
may be susceptible to heat-related illness, at least twice a day.
