Central Jersey Pools - Heat Safety Awareness Tips

Heat Safety Awareness Tips

Now that the latest heat wave is upon us, it’s time to go over some ground rules on how to stay cool this summer – safely! First off, it’s important to know the risks. With hot summer weather that can stretch into the 90s for days with high heat and humidity, you need to know you are at a higher risk for anything from heat stroke and exhaustion to heat cramps and rash. According to the National Weather Service, heat is one of the top weather-related killers in the country, resulting in hundreds of fatalities and even more heat-related illnesses every year.
Prevention
Next, you need to know how to prevent these things from happening in the first place.
Heed these tips to stay safe during a heat wave:

  • Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water and steer clear of caffeine or alcoholic beverages, which can dehydrate you quickly.
  • Stay cool in your home with the AC on. If you don’t have air conditioning, go to a friend’s house, hit the mall, or read at the library.
  • Don loose, lightweight clothing such as cotton in light colors.
  • Avoid going outside during the peak hours of 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.
  • Fans can help move around air already being cooled by the AC, but a fan enough is not alone to stave off heat stroke. If you can’t get to an air conditioned structure, take a cool bath.
  • If you love to exercise outdoors, such as running and jogging, do so in the early morning or evening hours. Drink two to four glasses of water every hour. Remember, water is best – even over those sports drinks that look so good.
  • Take frequent breaks in shaded areas when being active outdoors.
  • Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
  • Always wear sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher. Look for labels that say “broad spectrum” or “UVA/UVB protection.”
  • Spend some time in your pool!

While these tips may sound like common sense to you, they may not be to others, such as the elderly. Some people can be at a greater risk for heat-related illnesses, so do your part to keep an extra eye on:

  • Infants and toddlers
  • Adults over the age of 65
  • Those with mental illnesses
  • Those with physical illnesses, such as high blood pressure or heart disease

We can enjoy all the fun things that summer brings, provided we enjoy them responsibly and make good decisions when it comes to heat awareness safety. Keep your pool looking and functioning great so it’s always ready to use during a heat wave. Call Central Jersey Pools for help in maintaining it!