Prevention and Safety Tips During High Heat Temperatures

HIGH HEAT TEMPERATURES can be life threatening to not only plants, animals but also to human beings.  Here are some: 

PREVENTION AND SAFETY TIPS:

Stay Hydrated: 🥤Drink plenty of fluids (water, sports drinks to replace electrolytes)  even if you don't feel thirsty.  Avoid sugary, caffeinated, and alcoholic drinks, as they can contribute to dehydration.  Check your urine color: dark yellow indicates you need to drink more.  

Stay Cool:  Spend as much time as possible in air-conditioned places (home, public cooling centers, libraries, malls).  If you don't have AC, take cool showers, or baths.  Use fans, but be aware that they may not prevent heat-related illness when temperatures are in the high 90's or above, as they can dehydrate you faster.  Minimize direct sun exposure, especially between 10am and 4pm (the hottest parts of the day).  Spend 2-3 hours during the day in a cool place, if possible.

Dress Appropriately:  Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing to reflect the heat. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses when out doors. 

Limit Outdoor Activity:  Reduce, eliminate or reschedule strenuous activities until the coolest time of the day (early morning or evening).  Take frequent breaks  in the shade or a cool area if you must be outdoors.

Protect Against Sunburn: Sunburn affects your body's ability to cool itself.  Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF15 and reapply often. 

Check on Vulnerable Individuals:  Check on family members, older adults, neighbors, and pets regularly. 

Never Leave Anyone (or Pets) in a Parked Car:  The temperature inside a car can rise very quickly to dangerous levels.

Prepare for Power Outages:  Extreme heat can strain power grids.  Have a plan for how you can stay cool if the power goes out.

By being aware of these risks and taking proactive steps, humans can significantly reduce their chances of experiencing heat-related illnesses in temperatures over 100 derees Fahrenheit.

A part of this article was an answer given when texting Gemini about "What should humans be aware of in temperatures over 100 f degrees?" 

Click links for more on this topic from this blog: guestandgardening.blogspot.com

Heat Related Illnesses and Their Symptoms:

 https://guestandgardening.blogspot.com/2025/06/blog-post.html

Heat Related Illnesses/ Who is Most At-Risk

https://guestandgardening.blogspot.com/2025/06/heat-related-illnesswhos-at-risk.html

Article "Prevention and Safety Tips During High Heat Temperatures" 

and picture by Nell Sapp