Keep Your Cool in Hot Weather

High temperatures kill hundreds of people every year, reports the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Heat-related deaths and illnesses are preventable, yet more than 700 people die from extreme heat every year in the United States.  Take measures to stay cool, remain hydrated, and keep informed. Getting too hot can make you sick. You can become ill from the heat if your body can’t compensate for it and properly cool you off.  Those who are at the highest risk include people 65 and older, children younger than two, and people with chronic diseases or mental illnesses.  Everyone should take the following steps to prevent heat-related illnesses, injuries, and death during hot weather.  Stay in air-conditioned buildings as much as you can.  Air conditioning is the number one way to protect yourself against heat-related illness and death.  Do not rely on a fan as your main cooling device during an extreme heat event.  Drink more water than usual and don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink.  Check on a friend or neighbor and have someone do the same for you.  Don’t use the stove or oven to cook as it will make you and your house hotter.  If you play a sport that practices during hot weather, protect yourself and look out for your teammates.  Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing and sunscreen.  Pace yourself.  Take cool showers or baths to cool down.