Beating Up the Summer Heat

Just recently Pagasa warns of 40-degree summer heat.

Yes the Summer heat is on and there's possibility of hotter and hotter summers because of Global warming. It is important for everyone to understand that some people are especially likely to get sick when they are in weather that is very hot.

And before that happens, here are some things you can do:


DRINK -- Drink plenty of cool fluids, even if you are not physically active and even if you are not thirsty. If you are physically active, drink 2-4 glasses (16-32 ounces) every hour. Check with your doctor if you are on a fluid-restricted diet. Avoid very cold liquids as they can cause stomach cramps. Avoid liquids with alcohol, caffeine, and large amounts of sugar as these actually increase the loss of body fluid. Drinking fruit juice and sports beverages help replace necessary salt and minerals lost from the body through sweating.

DRESS - Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. Add a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher) if headed outdoors.

DECREASE - Limit physical activity and stay indoors in an air-conditioned space (home, shopping mall, library). During an extreme heat wave, listen to the radio to hear where emergency places to get cool are being set up. Electric fans will not prevent heat-related illness when the temperature climbs into the high 90s.

DEFEND - If working outside in the heat, monitor coworkers and have them do the same for you. Check on the elderly at least twice a day. Check infants and children frequently. Check on those who are overweight or who are ill.

DEMONSTRATE - Demonstrate common sense. Avoid hot foods and heavy meals. Make sure animals and pets have plenty of fresh water and shade. Consider bringing pets inside and consider wetting down outside animals..
DON'T -- Do NOT leave people or pets in a parked car for any length of time for any reason.

Prevention is better than cure.