Prevent Heat Stress Illness
August 15, 2016
Heat-related illnesses or death are preventable if you follow a few simple steps.
- Stay in an air-conditioned area during the hottest hours of the day. If you don't have air conditioning in your home, go to a public place such as a shopping mall or a library to stay cool.聽Air conditioning is the strongest protective factor against heat-related illness. Exposure to air conditioning for even a few hours a day will reduce the risk for heat-related illness.
- Cooling stations and senior centers are also available in many large cities for people of all ages ( is a list for centers in New York City).
- Wear light, loose-fitting clothing.
- Drink water often.
- Don't wait until you are thirsty.
- Avoid unnecessary hard work or activities if you are outside or in a building without air-conditioning.
- Avoid unnecessary sun exposure.
- When in the sun, wear a hat, preferably with a wide brim.聽