By Staff Reports
(Hawaii)– High temperatures across Hawaiʻi and the U.S. significantly increase the risk of heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke, which can be life threatening.
Philip Verhoef, a clinical assistant professor of medicine at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa John A. Burns School of Medicine and an intensive care physician at Kaiser Foundation Hospital, has tips to prevent heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
- Verhoef’s tips to prevent heat exhaustion and heat stroke:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water regularly, especially when outdoors. At least a quart of water per hour or 1 to 2 cups every 15 minutes.
- Avoid Peak Heat: Limit outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day (usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.).
- Take Breaks: Rest in cool, shaded or air-conditioned areas frequently.
- Wear Appropriate Clothing: Choose light, loose-fitting and breathable clothes.
- Use Sunscreen: Protect your skin from sunburn, which can affect the body’s ability to cool itself.
- Monitor Physical Activity: Reduce strenuous activities and the time you spend in extreme heat. Take it easy if you start feeling any symptoms of heat-related illness.
- Stay Informed: Be aware of the heat index and weather forecasts to plan activities accordingly.
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