Hiking, biking and generally exploring this gorgeous planet we inhabit – all of that’s neat, especially during the summertime. But you’ve got to watch it out there when it comes to the heat.
Consider, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says from 1979 – 2003 excessive heat exposure killed 8,105 people in this country alone – more than hurricanes, lightning, tornadoes, floods and earthquakes combined.
The mechanism is elemental: the human body cools itself by sweating. Most of the time, it works fine. Under some conditions, however, perspiration just isn’t enough. Very high temperatures can damage vital organs, even the brain. That’s why it’s important to prevent heat injuries, not merely treat them.
To that end, here’s what CDC suggests:
Up your intake of fluids, and we don’t mean beer. Don’t wait till your thirsty to drink. If you exercise in a hot environment – heavy hiking, biking, or even lots of walking around an amusement park – drink two to four glasses of cool liquids each hour. Eschew alcohol, and drinks with loads of sugar. They can actually cause you to shed more body fluid. Avoid super-cold concoctions too. They can trigger stomach cramps.
- Replace salt and minerals. A good sports beverage can help. If you’re on a low-salt diet talk to your doc before you start quaffing sports drinks or popping salt tablets.
- Dress for success. That means lightweight, loose-fitting clothes, the kind that doesn’t constrict blood flow.
- Slather on the sunscreen, and then do it again. SPF 15 or higher, please. Sunburn actually affects your body’s ability to cool itself.
- Think. Carefully meter your outdoor activities. Try to confine them to the morning and evening. Pace yourself. You just can’t jump into the heat and automatically adapt. If you find your heart pounding or gasping for breath, don’t be a hero and push on through to the other side. Stop, and head to a shady or (preferably) air conditioned area.
The CDC has some other salient suggestions that can save your summer. Just go to the website.
(Image: Luis Hernandez – D2k6.es)
