As summer temperatures climb, enjoying the sunshine comes with responsibilities, including keeping your family and pets safe. While warm weather is often a welcome change from cold and snow, it can also pose serious health risks. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 700 people in the U.S. die each year due to heat-related causes. With that in mind, understanding how to recognize heat dangers and taking preventive steps are essential.
Recognizing heat illness in people
Time outdoors is appealing during summer, but excessive heat can cause dangerous health issues. It’s critical to recognize symptoms early.
Heat exhaustion symptoms:
- Confusion
- Dizziness or fainting
- Dark-colored urine
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Muscle cramps
- Profuse sweating
- Rapid heartbeat
If you or someone else is experiencing these symptoms, move to a cooler environment immediately.
Heat stroke symptoms:
- Throbbing headache
- No sweating
- Hot, red skin
- Rapid, shallow breathing
- Muscle weakness
- Seizures or unconsciousness
Heat stroke requires immediate medical attention as it can damage vital organs.
Tips for keeping your family safe
Enjoy the summer weather with your family while keeping these safety tips in mind:
- Hydrate often. The amount of water each person needs varies depending on body type and activity level. Anywhere between 68 to 135 ounces of water per day is a good baseline. Add flavor packets if you don’t like the taste of water.
- Avoid peak heat hours. Limit strenuous activity between 11:00am and 3:00pm.
- Prepare for power outages. Power outages are more common in the summer months. Stock food, water, and medication in case your air-conditioning goes out.
- Wear appropriate clothing. Wear hats, sunglasses, and light, loose-fitting clothing.
- Keep your home and vehicle cool. Use blinds and sunshades. Consider steering wheel covers.
- Never leave children in vehicles. Temperatures inside a car can become deadly in just 10 minutes.
- Check on elderly neighbors. They’re more vulnerable during heatwaves.
Protecting your pets in the heat
Your pets are just as vulnerable to summer dangers. Here's how to keep them safe:
- Limit outdoor time. Walk pets early or late in the day. On hot days, cut your usual walk by a third.
- Watch for overheating. Pets cool through their feet and by panting. Warning signs of overheating include drooling, unsteadiness, and excessive panting. In severe cases, poor oxygen flow or even death can occur.
- Mind the pavement. Asphalt and concrete can burn paws. Test with your hand or use protective paw wear.
- Never leave pets in a hot car. Even with windows cracked, temperatures rise quickly.
- Keep them hydrated. Always have fresh water available.
- Use cooling gear. Consider cooling mats, wraps, or vests. Fans alone may not help much.
- Watch the grooming. Avoid shaving dogs’ fur too short, as their coats provide both warmth and cooling and protect them from sunburn. Consult a groomer for summer trims.
- Be yard aware. Keep pets away from treated lawns, mulch, fertilizers, or harmful garden plants.
- Avoid sharing picnic food. Many popular picnic items can be harmful to pets. Bones, fatty meats, and corn cobs can cause gastrointestinal distress or blockages.
- Use pet life jackets. Not all dogs swim well. A bright life jacket improves visibility and safety around water.
- Prepare for storms. Loud weather can stress pets. Create a quiet space and use white noise like music or fans.
