Safety Alert

HEAT Illness

As the summer begins upon us, be reminded that dehydration and life-threatening
illness may develop so quickly that a person doesn’t even experience thirst.
Individuals who become dehydrated in hot working conditions are at risk for Heat
Cramps, Heat Exhaustion and more severe is Heat Stroke.

Heat Cramps

The first sign of trouble may be muscle cramps in the shoulders, stomach, calves, or
thighs. These painful cramps can be relieved by seeking rest in a cool area and by
drinking water or sports drinks.

Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion is another condition associated with physical labor in hot environments.  People may become dizzy, experience headaches, become fatigued or even faint.  ndividuals experiencing these symptoms should be taken to a cool place, given fluids, nd placed in front of a fan.

Heat Stroke

This is the most severe of all heat illness and it can be deadly. Individuals will present
with flushed skin and will no longer be sweating. The person may become confused, dis-orientated and may even begin to have seizures. Victims of heat stroke must be given edical treatment in the hospital.

9 Ways To Avoid Heat Illness
1 ) Attempt to acclimatize yourself to your environment
2 ) Wear light colored clothing and lose fitting clothing
3 ) Cover your head with a type of hat
4 ) Eat smaller meals
5 ) Plan your work for cooler times throughout the day
6 ) Take periodic breaks
7 ) Pace your work
8 ) Re-Hydrate yourself with Water or Sports Drinks
9 ) Avoid Caffeine or Alcohol

And one more friendly reminder…don’t forget the SPF!