Summer is here. Working in hot weather without taking
precautions can result in heat exhaustion or stroke. Make sure you stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty - drink
two to four glasses of cool, nonalcoholic fluids each hour. A sports
beverage can replace the salt and minerals you lose in sweat. Don’t drink
liquids that contain alcohol or large amounts of sugar–these actually cause you
to lose more body fluid. Also, avoid very cold drinks, because they can cause
stomach cramps. Wear a hat, along with sunglasses, and loose fitting
light weight clothing.
Use a sunscreen product with a SPF (Sun Protection Factor) rating of 15 or
higher (the most effective products say "broad spectrum" or
"UVA/UVB protection" on their labels) and apply 30 minutes prior to
going out - and walk in the shade when possible. Eat spicy food! Spicy
food increases perspiration which leads to a cooling effect on the body.
Know the symptoms of heat exhaustion.
· Headaches, dizziness.
·
Mood changes, irritability, confusion.
·
Weakness, nausea or vomiting, fainting.
·
Pale, clammy skin.
If you or a co-worker experiences any of these symptoms act
quickly and move the victim to a cool shaded area. Loosen and remove any heavy
clothing. Give the person cool water to drink, about a cup every 15
minutes––unless they are nauseous or vomiting. Spray or apply a wet cloth to
skin. Call 911 for emergency help if the person does not feel better in a few
minutes.
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| New York District Letter Carriers making their appointed rounds during first heat wave of the season Top Left: James Bonitsis-JAF, Top Right: Samuel D. Cardenas-JAF, Bottom Left: Tonia Wesley-Old Chelsea, Bottom Right: Mozell Dawson-Jerome |