Main Number 781-290-4000 Referrals: 781-290-4200

Summer Safety Tips

• Dress cool; wear clothing that is lightweight and light in color and loose fitting.
• Drink plenty of fluids. Avoid alcohol or caffeine, which can dehydrate you.
• Stay in a cool place, preferably one that is air-conditioned or has fans.
• Avoid any strenuous exercises; limit your activity.
• Take frequent rest periods when involved in physical activity.
• Eat small frequent meals; avoid hot and heavy meals.
• Check with your physician to see if you should watch your salt intake.
• Check in with your family, friends, and neighbors, especially the elderly who are at high risk for heat- related illness.
• Apply sunscreen 30 minutes prior to going outdoors and use an SPF of at least 15 even on cloudy or overcast days.
• Do not leave children or pets in an enclosed vehicle.

Understanding heat-related illness:

• Heat cramps are painful spasms that occur mostly in the abdomen and legs and usually result from heavy sweating brought on by strenuous activity. Stop the activity and rest; drink small amounts of water; gently stretch the muscle for about 20 seconds, then gently massage it. Resume your activity if there are no other symptoms.

• Heat exhaustion occurs when people exercise heavily or work in a warm, humid place. Symptoms include cool, moist pale skin; headache; dizziness, weakness, or exhaustion; nausea and the skin may or may not feel hot. If you suspect heat exhaustion, lie down in a cool place, loosen your clothing, apply cool wet clothes, take sips of water, and contact your physician.

• Heat stroke is a medical emergency where the body's temperature control system stops working. Symptoms include vomiting; hot, dry skin; rapid and strong pulse; and decreased alertness or loss of consciousness. If these symptoms are present, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.

Summer Safety Tips is also available as a printable PDF: Summer Tips (PDF).