In August, we recognize “Summer Sun Safety Month” to highlight the importance of protecting ourselves from excessive sun exposure, regardless of skin tone. According to FEMA, extreme heat is the primary weather-related cause of death in the United States. Whether you are working outdoors or enjoying the beach, prolonged sun exposure can have detrimental effects on your health and may result in heat-related illnesses.
What are heat-related illnesses?
Exposure to prolonged periods of high heat and humidity without adequate relief or fluid intake can lead to various types of heat-related illnesses.
There are three main types of heat-related illnesses, (ranging from least to most severe):
Condition |
Symptoms |
Treatment |
| Heat Cramps | Painful muscle cramps and spasms | Stop all activity.
Move to a cool place and rest.
Drink water or a sports drink containing salt and sugar.
Get medical help if heat cramps do not stop. |
| Heat Exhaustion | Heavy sweating, cramps, headache, nausea or vomiting, weakness, dizziness and fainting | Move to a cool place and rest.
Drink water or a sports drink containing salt and sugar.
Take a cool shower or bath.
Get medical help if symptoms are not improving. IV (intravenous) fluids may be needed. |
| Heat Stroke | Warm, dry skin, high body temperature, dizziness, nausea, confusion, rapid heart rate, headache, fatigue, unconsciousness.
It can cause seizures, coma, and death if treatment is not provided as soon as possible. |
Move to a cool place and rest.
Call 9-1-1 immediately and follow their instructions until help arrives.
Place a cold compress on the head, neck, armpits, and groin. |
How to prevent heat-related illnesses?
To maintain good health and prevent heat-related illnesses for both adults and children, it’s important to follow these tips:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty, and avoid caffeinated drinks.
- Limit Sun Exposure: The sun’s rays are most intense from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., so consider reducing your time in the sun during these hours.
- Know Cooling Options: Identify places where you can go to get cool and try to stay in the shade under an umbrella or tree as much as possible.
- Dress Appropriately: Wear a hat, long sleeves, or long pants to protect yourself from the sun. Dress in light-colored, lightweight, tightly woven, loose-fitting clothing.
- Use Sunscreen: Apply sunscreen every day, even on cloudy days (this goes for all skin tones).
- Never Leave Anyone in a Parked Car: Always ensure that all individuals (including pets) are out of the car before locking it.
- Recognize Symptoms of Heat-Related Illnesses: Learn the signs of heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke and how to respond if these symptoms occur.
