Hawaii Violence Prevention

During the blazing heat of summer months in most areas of the country, it’s very common to be faced with varying temperatures anywhere from the mid-80′s to temperatures that hover in the low 100′s. Because of this, there are many heat-related illnesses that are a result of these high numbers. Implementing a few precautionary rules during periods of high heat can help a person avoid heatstroke and other accompanying illnesses. They include:

1.) Avoiding any activities that are done in the heat of the day or at high noon. This is when the sun is at the hottest that it will be during the course of the day. This is also the most common time when dehydration can occur, so it is wise to avoid fluid-depleting activities and outdoor sports, if possible.

2.) Drink plenty of fluids. Like mentioned in the prior tip, dehydration can occur at anytime and can happen rather quickly. To help avoid this, keep your body constantly hydrated by drinking adequate fluids, including water and sports drinks that contain sufficient sodium that will keep your body adequately supplied with the fluids that are lost during sweating.

3) Avoid diuretics. A diuretic is any drink that causes the body to retain salts and dries out the body. This includes beverages like coffees, teas, alcoholic beverages, sodas and even some milk-based products like coffee blended beverages.

4.) Wear protective clothing. This applies to anyone who is outside for any reason and they are going to be out in the sun for any period of time. Protective clothing includes hats, sunglasses with ultraviolet ray protection, light, cool-colored clothing and protective sunscreen for the body.

In cases of heatstroke, it is advisable to seek emergency care at a medical facility and to quickly begin re-hydrating the body through fluid intake as soon as possible. Heat-related illnesses don’t have to happen and using these few general tips can help ensure that they won’t.