Some tips to help keep cool
As summer heats up, growing concerns about heat waves surging throughout the cities of Lancaster and Palmdale ignite. July is known as the hottest month in Palmdale, Lancaster and the Antelope Valley in general.
Both Lancaster and Palmdale witness extreme temperature shifts depending on the season. During the summer months, it is important to keep sun safety in mind. Many preventative measures can be taken or put in place to prevent heat-related illness, heat stroke, and heat exhaustion.
According to cambridge ma.gov, there are a few ways to stay cool in hot and/or extreme heat including staying cool outdoors, indoors, and staying hydrated. Drinking two to four glasses of water an hour can significantly help staying cool. Remember to bring water everywhere you go, beverages containing alcohol, caffeine, and excessive amounts of sugar tend to dehydrate the body.
Taking cool showers, and using air conditioning throughout the day can also provide relief. Window blinds should be closed throughout the day. Be advised that fans do not help prevent heat-related illness or offer relief when the temperature exceeds 90 degrees.
Outside activities, including exercise, should be limited to cooler parts of the day. Sunscreen including SPF 15 or higher is the recommended sunscreen. Keeping a cold or cool towel around your neck, wearing loose clothing and protective visors and or hats can keep your body at a cool temperature. Even eating lighter food (fruits especially) can be helpful.
People 65 years and over, children under two, those with respiratory, cardiovascular disease and diabetes are at greater risk for heat-related illnesses. People involved in outdoor exercise, the elderly, those overweight and pregnant women are also at high risk for heat exhaustion. Some of the symptoms include headaches, dizziness, nausea, confusion, cramps, and high body temperature.
Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek medical help. Signs of heat stroke include a temperature over 103 degrees; red, hot, and dry skin with no perspiration, rapid breathing and confusion and fainting. If you fear you are experiencing a heat stroke please call 9-1-1 and get to the hospital immediately. In the interim, be sure to cool down with water–not soft drinks.
Always remember to exercise caution in any situations involving sun and safety. Keep cool, keep calm, and continue to have fun in the sun.
