During this time of year the heat can become dangerous if you aren’t making sure to hydrate. Maintenance staff (and quite a few managers as well) are out in the direct sunlight, or often sweltering in a vacant apartment during these hot days, and are at risk of dehydration and heat illness. With this in mind, we’d like pass everyone a reminder about heat safety and prevention.
HEAT EXHAUSTION: Symptoms include dizziness, weakness, heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, headache, malaise, loss of appetite, fatigue, nausea, fainting, and a rash called prickly heat.
HEAT STROKE: Is a dysfunction of the central nervous system that makes the body stop sweating and organs stop working. Symptoms include dry skin, dizziness, headache, confusion, rapid breathing, rapid pulse, loss of consciousness, and a high body temp above 104°F. This is a medical emergency. Lower the body temperature immediately by moving the victim to shade, removing their clothing, bathing them in cool or cold water, and fan to increase cooling.
PREVENTATIVE MEASURES INCLUDE:
- Drink plenty of water
- Avoid alcohol, caffeinated drinks and soda
- Wear loose clothing
- Avoid direct sunlight or outdoors when possible
- Rest in a cool place
- Seek medical attention if symptoms do not go away
Of course, an ounce of prevention is worth a ton of medicine, and in this case prevention can come in the form of a bottle of water. Have water available, and be insistent that your maintenance staff is drinking plenty of water. Remember, hydration is the name of the game for these hot summer days.