The human body is normally able to regulate its temperature through sweating, until it is exposed to more heat than it can handle. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke can escalate rapidly, leading to delirium, organ damage and even death.
If your job requires you to work outside in hot weather, you and your coworkers can take precautions to minimize the risk of heat-related illnesses. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health recommends:
- Working shorter shifts until workers have adjusted to the heat.
- Staying hydrated and drinking before you get thirsty.
- Watch out for coworkers exhibiting signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
- Take time to rest and cool down.
In your community, please check in on neighbors who are elderly, house-bound or otherwise may be reluctant to ask for help. You can offer to host them in the air-conditioned comfort of your living room on hot days, drive them to a local cooling center, or call relatives or city services to arrange for them to stay cool.
Learn more about avoiding heat-related illness at https://www.nsc.org/home-safety/tools-resources/seasonal-safety/summer/heat.