When the Waldorf weather heats up, the danger rises, too. When you become too hot, your body gets sick or unable to cool down properly. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), more than 700 people die from heat-related causes in the United States each year. It is important that you know the right ways to deal with hot weather. These six tips can help you stay cool and healthy in the hot weather.
1. Stay Hydrated
Proper hydration is important if you want to avoid heat-related illnesses. Your body is designed to cool itself by sweating. This means that the hotter it gets, the more you sweat to cool yourself down. This can lead to dehydration. Drinking water regularly throughout the day, and not only when you feel thirsty, is the simplest way to stay hydrated. Also, if you will be doing intense physical activity in hot weather, remember to replace the electrolytes your body loses when you sweat. You can look for sports drinks that are not loaded with sugar to help you avoid dehydration and muscle cramps.
2. Limit Activities to Early Morning and Late Evening
During spring and summer, schedule your outdoor activities away from the hottest hours of the day. If possible, stay indoors in an air-conditioned room for most of the day. Plan your outdoor activities for early morning or late evening. This will keep your body temperature from rising to unhealthy levels as you avoid the heat of the day.
3.Stay Out of the Sun
Should you need to go outdoors during the day, avoid direct sunlight as much as possible. If your activities allow it, complete them in the shade of a tree or building. Not only will you avoid sunburn but heat-related illnesses as well. Use sunscreen and wear a hat, as well, when moving around in the sun. You can also shade yourself with a solar umbrella. These kinds of umbrellas are designed to block harmful UV rays as well as keep you stay cool as you walk around.
4. Dress for Comfort
It is important to adjust your clothing choices so you can stay comfortable in hot weather. Your best bets are lightweight, breathable fabrics that fit loosely. Tight-fitting or heavy materials will only trap heat and put you at risk for unhealthy body temperatures. Long sleeves and pants are also helpful for maximum sun protection.
5. Avoid Alcohol & Caffeine
Not all drinks can help you keep hydrated. Drinks that contain alcohol or caffeine can make dehydration worse. These substances usually cause you to urinate more, making your body lose more liquids. Alcohol, especially, has been shown to interfere with your body’s ability to absorb the water you intake.
6. Know the Signs of Heat-Related Illnesses
At times you might still feel the effects of hot weather. If you notice any dizziness, nausea, or a painful headache, you may be a risk for a heat-related illness. If you have all these symptoms plus cold, clammy skin, you might have heat exhaustion. Even worse, you might be having a heatstroke if you have symptoms like a high fever, red, hot skin, and a loss of consciousness. Get emergency medical help right away if you or anyone with you is experiencing these symptoms.
Are you looking for a new Waldorf rental home that will help you stay cool during spring and summer? If so, contact us today online or check out our rental listings.
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.
