Tips from Winneshiek County Public Health to beat the heat

Posted: Tue, Jun 30, 2020 10:10 AM

As temperatures and heat indexes are forecast to rise over the next few days and into the holiday weekend, it is important to take the necessary precautions to prevent heat related illnesses such as heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat cramps and sunburn.

Winneshiek County Public Health is reminding people of the following:

NEVER leave a person or animal in a closed, parked vehicle. 
During extreme heat, stay indoors, preferably in an air-conditioned building. If air conditioning is not available, try to spend a few hours a day in a library or shopping mall that is air-conditioned. Other ways to help stay cool include using an electric fan (if the temperature is in the high 90's, fans will not prevent heat related issues) and taking a cool shower or bath.
Drink plenty of fluids, but avoid drinks with alcohol, caffeine or large amounts of sugar. These liquids will dehydrate you.
Drink lots of water
Drink often and regularly, and drink more than just water if sweating a lot. Salt and minerals are lost through sweating. It's important to maintain those levels with salty foods or rehydration drinks, especially if you are sweating profusely and exercising more than 90 minutes.
For those who must be out in the heat, limit activity to the morning and evening hours when it is cooler, drink plenty of fluids and stay in the shade when possible. Try to cut down on exercise if able.
To protect from sun exposure, wear a hat and use a sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher. Check on elderly neighbors and friends one to two times per day if they do not have air conditioning.
Provide shade and water for pets and animals that are outdoors.

For more prevention information about recognizing heat-related illnesses, visit www.winneshiekhealth.org call 563-382-4662 or find us on Facebook at Winneshiek County Public Health.