Ready to beat the heat? We are, too! Here’s what Dr. Daniel Meltzer, Regence, Executive Medical Director recommends for staying “heat-safe.”
Lately, across southern & southwest Idaho, we’re hitting days with 100-degree-plus heat a year which makes it more important to take extra precautions to protect ourselves from overheating.
Dr. Meltzer says when the heat affects us, we can get:
- Hyperthermia
- Heat exhaustion
- Heat strokes
He says if we think a loved one is experiencing a heat stroke, we should move them to a cool place/call 911.
Now, Dr. Meltzer does say there are those who are at heightened risk of harm from overheating which include:
- Those who work in the heat
- Infants & young children
- Overweight individuals
- Older adults
Here’s what he recommends we all do to lessen our chances of developing heat-related illnesses:
- Stay hydrated
- Avoid caffeine & alcohol
- Take frequent breaks
- Wear loose fitting, lightly colored and lightweight clothes
- Wear a hat if in the sun
- Check on friends & neighbors
- Minimize use of heat-generating appliances like stoves or ovens
- If you must exercise outdoors, only exercise in the early morning hours, before 8 a.m.
- Take cool showers or baths to cool down
Dr. Meltzer suggests these other resources listed below to learn more about heat-related illnesses:
