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Bulletin Board
July 15, 2008: Play It Cool as Summer Heats Up
Ride Out the Heat Wave with Red Cross Tips
With a heat wave expected to sweep over the Northeast this week, your
American Red Cross urges a three-pronged approach to keeping your cool.
Heat Safety:
Prolonged exposure to excessive humidity and high temperatures can put
stress on our bodies. Minimize this impact by staying cool, staying inside
and staying hydrated by drinking lots of water. When air conditioning is not
available at home or through a cooling center, go to a mall, a movie or
visit your local library for relief.
For Heat Cramps or Heat Exhaustion
* Get the person to a cooler place and have him or her rest in a
comfortable position.
* If the person is fully awake and alert, give a half glass of cool
water every 15 minutes. Do not let him or her drink too quickly.
* Remove or loosen tight clothing and apply cool, wet cloths such as
towels or wet sheets.
* Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number if the person refuses
water, vomits or loses consciousness.
* Take a First Aid/CPR class to learn more about how to help.
If you must be outside:
* Wear light-colored clothing.
* Drink water, even if you are not thirsty.
* Work in the morning, before it gets too hot.
* Take frequent break in a cool location, preferably indoors.
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