Regional Executive Corner with Joel R. Sullivan, June 2016

My favorite season has arrived, and while I look forward to weekends on the lake and by the pool, I always keep in mind that long, hot days of summer can bring dangerously high temperatures. Thankfully, the American Red Cross has steps people can follow to stay safe when it’s hot outside.

HOT CARS CAN BE DEADLY Never leave children or pets in your vehicle. The inside temperature of the car can quickly reach 120 degrees. Other heat safety steps include:

·  Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol.

·  Avoid extreme temperature changes.

·  Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays.

·  Slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day.
·  Postpone outdoor games and activities.

·  Use a buddy system when working in excessive heat. Take frequent breaks if working outdoors.

·  Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning, who spend much of their time alone or who are more likely to be affected by the heat.

·  Check on animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat. Make sure they have plenty of cool water.

·  If someone doesn’t have air conditioning, they should choose places to go to for relief from the heat during the warmest part of the day (schools, libraries, theaters, malls).

HEAT EXHAUSTION Excessive heat can lead to sunburn, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. If someone is experiencing heat cramps in the legs or abdomen, get them to a cooler place, have them rest, lightly stretch the affected muscle, and replenish their fluids with a half a glass (about 4 ounces) of cool water every 15 minutes.

If someone is exhibiting signs of heat exhaustion (cool, moist, pale or flushed skin, heavy sweating, headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness exhaustion), move them to a cooler place, remove or loosen tight clothing and spray the person with water or apply cool, wet cloths or towels to the skin. Fan the person. If they are conscious, give small amounts of cool water to drink. Make sure the person drinks slowly. Watch for changes in condition. If the person refuses water, vomits or begins to lose consciousness, call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number.

HEAT STROKE LIFE-THREATENING Signs include hot, red skin which may be dry or moist; changes in consciousness; vomiting and high body temperature. Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number immediately if someone shows signs of heat stroke. Move the person to a cooler place. Quickly cool the person’s body by immersing them up to their neck in cold water if possible. Otherwise, douse or spray the person with cold water, or cover the person with cold, wet towels or bags of ice.

I encourage you to download the free Red Cross Emergency App which provides 35 different severe weather and emergency alerts, as well as the Red Cross First Aid App to put expert advice for everyday emergencies in your hands.

I hope you have a safe and fun-filled summer!