by Kate Evans
Summer fun can continue through the hot days of summer, but extreme heat can pose a real challenge for individuals and families. Take some basic steps to keep yourself, neighbors, older relatives and children healthy during a heat wave.
Here are some important tips that will help you and your family weather the heat:
Dehydration, heat stroke
It is vital to stay hydrated in the summer heat. Dehydration occurs when you use or lose more fluids than you take in and your body doesn’t have the needed fluids for normal functions. Dehydration is especially dangerous for young children and older adults, according to Mayo Clinic information.
Causes of dehydration include diarrhea, vomiting, excessive sweating, fever, increased urination and strenuous physical activity. Medications in the elderly can also encourage dehydration. Mild to moderate dehydration can be reversed by drinking more fluids, but severe dehydration needs immediate medical treatment.
Many people, especially older adults, don’t realize they’re thirsty until they’re already dehydrated. Signs of dehydration include extreme thirst, decreased urination, dark-colored urine, fatigue, dizziness and disorientation.
If you’re working or playing outside, drink plenty of water often, especially if it’s very hot or if you’re feeling ill. Pace yourself and take frequent breaks to avoid dehydration, heat exhaustion, heat stroke or heat cramps. Water and sports drinks are good beverage choices. 
Avoid caffeinated drinks like tea, coffee, and alcohol as they can lead to dehydration, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine.
Wear light-weight, light-colored clothing made of breathable fabrics like cotton. Schedule vigorous work and activities in the coolest hours of the day. Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a hat and sunglasses and using an umbrella.
Take plenty of drink breaks outdoors and mist yourself with a spray bottle to avoid getting overheated. Spend as much time as possible indoors when it’s very hot and humid.
Danger signs of heat stroke can include hot, red, dry or damp skin, a high body temperature, rapid heartbeat, profuse sweating, dizziness, confusion, headache, disorientation, fatigue, nausea and loss of consciousness. Heat stroke is a medical emergency.
Pet safety
Animals can also suffer heat stroke. Some dogs with short noses or snouts are very prone to heat stroke, along with animals that are overweight, breeds that have thick fur and those with respiratory conditions.
Signs that your pet could have heatstroke are heavy panting, being unable to calm down, a fast pulse rate, brick red gums and being unable to get up.
The American Red Cross advises that if heat stroke in a pet is suspected, to take their temperature rectally. If it’s above 105 degrees, cool them down with a water hose until their temperature reaches 103 degrees. Take your pet to the veterinarian as soon as possible as heat stroke can cause severe organ damage.
The American Red Cross also reminds everyone to not leave pets or children in a hot vehicle, even for a few minutes. The inside temperature of the car can quickly reach 120 degrees even with the windows partially open.
