Heat Watch

After numerous wet days in April and May, we’ve now experienced a few days of heat and humidity. Although many of us long for the summer months all year, few enjoy the extreme heat of mid summer when humidity can reach unbearable levels. It’s on such days that everyone, but particularly elders, needs to take practical steps to prevent heat-related illnesses.

The 90-degree days in July and August can be dangerous because they can quickly cause us to become dehydrated. Make sure to drink water throughout the day. Even if you're not thirsty, you should keep filling that water glass. If you don't like water, try eating fruit or Popsicles as they have a high water content. When we sweat, our bodies use water to cool off. We need to replenish our personal air-conditioning system frequently.

Even when we drink water, it’s sometimes so hot that cooling off requires more effort. Encourage elders to go to air-conditioned senior centers when the mercury soars. If this isn't an option, be sure that windows in apartments and homes are open to allow fresh air to circulate throughout the living areas. Fans are useful to make the air move.

Remember that people aren't the only things that get hot. Watch those home-delivered meals! They can spoil quickly if not refrigerated! And, don’t forget pets. They should get plenty of water and avoid the direct sun. While you’re helping your pet into the shade, make sure that you don’t get too much sun yourself. Sunburns are painful and can cause serious damage to your skin.

When the warm weather arrives, be prepared for those "hotter-than-comfortable" days. Hot weather can be very serious so please watch out for your friends and neighbors. Being careful on hot days will help keep summer an enjoyable season for elders and everyone.