Resources
- CDC: About Heat and Your Health
- CDC: Heat and Pregnancy
- CDC: Heat and Infants and Children
- CDC: Extreme Heat and Your Health
- CDC: Older Adults and Extreme Heat
- CDC: Heat Stress
- CDC: Preventing Heat-Related Illness
- CDC: Symptoms of Heat-Related Illnesses
- CDC: People at Increased Risk for Heat-Related Illness
- CDC: Heat and Athletes
- CDC: Water Safety
Page last reviewed: June 28, 2024
Heat-Related Safety Tips:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How can I stay hydrated during extreme heat?
Answer: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol, as they can dehydrate you.
2. What should I wear to stay cool in hot weather?
Answer: Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing to reflect heat and sunlight. A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses can also help protect you from the sun.
3. How can I keep my home cool without air conditioning?
Answer: Use fans, keep windows and doors closed during the hottest parts of the day, and open them at night to let in cooler air. Use curtains or blinds to block out direct sunlight.
4. What are the best times of day to go outside?
Answer: Try to stay indoors during the hottest parts of the day, usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If you need to be outside, seek shade and take frequent breaks.
5. How can I keep my body cool?
Answer: Take cool showers or baths, apply a damp cloth to your skin, or use a spray bottle with water. Avoid strenuous activities during peak heat hours.
6. What should I do if I feel overheated?
Answer: Move to a cooler place, drink water, and use a wet cloth to cool your skin. If you feel dizzy, weak, or nauseous, seek medical attention immediately.
7. How can I help others during extreme heat?
Answer: Check on elderly neighbors, young children, and those with health conditions regularly to ensure they are staying cool and hydrated, and offer assistance if needed.
8. What are some signs of heat-related illness?
Answer: Watch for symptoms like heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, headache, and fainting. Severe symptoms include confusion, high body temperature, and unconsciousness.
9. Can pets be affected by heat too?
Answer: Yes, pets can suffer from heat-related illnesses. Ensure they have plenty of water, keep them indoors during extreme heat, and never leave them in a parked car.
10. What should I do if someone shows signs of heat stroke?
Answer: Call 911 immediately. Move the person to a cooler place, use cool water to lower their body temperature, and do not give them anything to drink.
Additional Resources
For more detailed information and tips on staying safe during extreme heat, contact our helpline.
Contact Information:
Helpline: 1-800-HEATSAFE (432-8723)
Email: info@heatsafety.org
CDC: About Heat and Your Health
Heat and Water Safety Tips
Athletic Practices
- Hydration Strategies: Importance of frequent water breaks and staying hydrated before, during, and after practice.
- Heat Illness Prevention: Recognizing signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, and steps to prevent them.
- Appropriate Gear: Wearing lightweight, breathable clothing and using sunscreen to protect against sunburn.
Band Drills
- Structured Breaks: Implementing mandatory water breaks and rest periods during practice.
- Monitoring Health: Keeping an eye on students for signs of heat-related illnesses and having a plan in place for emergencies.
- Cool Down Techniques: Using cool towels, shade, and indoor practice areas when possible to reduce heat exposure.
Family Reunions
- Shade and Cooling Stations: Setting up tents or shaded areas and providing fans or misting stations.
- Safe Food Practices: Keeping food at proper temperatures to prevent foodborne illnesses in the heat.
- Activity Planning: Scheduling outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day and encouraging frequent breaks.
Yard Work
- Timing and Pacing: Doing yard work early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid peak heat, and taking regular breaks.
- Protective Clothing and Gear: Wear hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen, and using gloves to prevent sunburn and overheating.
- Hydration and Nutrition: Drinking water regularly and eating light, easy-to-digest meals.
Water Safety Around Pools
As we enjoy the summer heat in Houston, it's important to prioritize safety around pools. Here are some essential tips:
- Always Supervise: Never leave children unattended around pools. Ensure an adult is always present.
- Learn to Swim: Enroll your family in swimming lessons to increase safety and confidence in the water.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, even when you're in the pool. The summer heat can lead to dehydration quickly.
- Apply Sunscreen: Protect your skin from harmful UV rays by applying waterproof sunscreen regularly.
- Use Safety Gear: Ensure young swimmers wear appropriate flotation devices.
- Check Pool Safety Equipment: Regularly inspect pool fences, gates, and lifesaving equipment to ensure they're in good condition.
Heat poses significant and increasing risks to public health across the United States. Use this dashboard to explore your community’s heat exposure, related health outcomes, and assets that can protect people during heat events