
9 6 Prepare

Disaster CAN Strike
ANYONE-ANYWHERE-ANYTIME
Heat & Sun Exposure
"Heat related deaths and illnesses are preventable. Despite this, around 618 people in the United States are killed by extreme heat every year." (CDC)






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Short U.P. Summers means that average temperatures in June, July and August are, on average, in the 60°F range
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Record High of 104°F July 29, 1917 in Iron Mountain area. What does this mean? Heat happens everywhere, including the U.P.
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Heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat cramps, heat rash, sunburn - there are many types of heat related illness. Be familiar with the terms and symptoms.
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The body typically can cool itself and regulate temperature by sweating. During days of extreme heat and humidity, the body has a tougher time keeping itself regulated which can potentially lead to heat/sun related illness - too much heat/sun CAN make you sick
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NEVER leave children or animals unattended in a closed vehicle
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Drink plenty of fluids (unless restricted by your doctor - always talk to your primary care provider before making any changes to your health/diet)
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Do not wait until you are thirty to start hydrating
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Keep cool indoors using air conditioning or cold shower. Fans may help symptoms but will not cool down core body temperature
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Check on family or neighbors who do not have air conditioning or are typically alone
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Be mindful of handicapped, elderly, children, pets/animals and anyone else who may be more sensitive to heat
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Use morning or evening for exercise and outdoor activity
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If outdoors:
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Avoid physical activity at the hottest times (mid day) or if you must work in heat related conditions, use the buddy system and take frequent breaks
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Seek shade; tree or umbrella
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Wear dry, protective, loose fitting, lightweight and light colored clothing; try to expose as little skin as possible to avoid sun damage
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Wear a fully brimmed hat to cover face, ears and neck; sunglasses
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Sunscreen: SPF 15 or greater (the higher the SPF the better) is apply every 2 hours or after you swim, get sweaty or towel off
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