Friday, July 06, 2007

Surviving the Heat


Heat Related Safety Tips

Never leave a child unattended in a motor vehicle: San Jose Fire Department wants to remind everyone that leaving a child unattended in a vehicle can have devastating consequences. Caregivers should be particularly vigilant about children's safety on days when temperatures rise.

Drink Plenty of Fluids: During hot weather, you need to drink water even if you don’t feel thirsty—as much as two to four glasses of cool fluids each hour. Avoid drinks containing alcohol or caffeine.

Stay Cool Indoors: The best way to beat the heat is to stay in a cool area. If you do not have an air conditioner, consider a visit to a shopping mall, movie theatre, or public library for a few hours. A cool shower or bath also can cool you off. Avoid strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day, usually mid- to late-afternoon.

Avoid Hot Foods and Heavy Meals: Have a popsicle or other frozen treat that can be refreshing on a warm day. Eat cool or cold foods such as sandwiches and salads. Fresh vegetables and fruits generally contain water too and can help hydrate while offering a healthy snack. The key is to stay hydrated.

Use a Buddy System: The elderly, children, and individuals on certain medications should be especially prepared for the heat and the possibility of power outages. If you are vulnerable to the heat, have someone check on you twice a day during a heat wave.

Fend off food poisoning: In warm weather, careless food preparation such as an undercooked burger and improper food storage can be disastrous. Don't let an outbreak of food poisoning ruin your good time. Cook your food thoroughly.

The City of San José uses specific community centers as Cooling Centers to provide relief from the summer heat. If you need a place to cool down during extreme heat, eleven Cooling Centers will be opened in San Jose.

For detailed information on Cooling Centers visit this link: http://www.sanjoseca.gov/prns/doc/CoolingCenterPR070507f.pdf


Posted by: Captain Alberto Olmos, SJFD, PIO

No comments: