Summertime can bring lots of fun outdoor activities and opportunities to enjoy longer days and nicer weather. Sometimes, though the days go beyond warm and pleasant and the heat becomes intolerable. The southern states in particular are prone to high temperatures, and even more suffocating, high humidity. While a temperature of 80 or 90 degrees can feel pretty hot, when you combine that with humidity, it can become downright dangerous. Either heat or humidity on it’s own poses some risks to health, but when combined, extra care should be taken. High humidity makes warmer temperatures feel even more intense. Humidity is the moisture content of the air, and when humidity is high, it’s harder for your body to cool itself. Sweat can’t evaporate easily, so in response your body produces even more sweat. It’s essential that you pay attention to the weather and heed high temperature warnings. Failure to take proper precautions can lead to serious health issues like heat exhaustion and heat stroke. In some cases, even death.
You may think that being from the southern states gives you a certain tolerance or immunity to the higher temperatures, but this isn’t true. Some people may not seem as affected as others. In fact, heat and humidity intolerance is a real thing, and can cause uncomfortable symptoms like nausea, dizziness, and headaches. Don’t ignore these symptoms and take action to cool yourself down. Even if you don’t have these types of symptoms when exposed to extremely high temperatures, it’s important that you take care of your body to prevent any issues from arising. You may need to change your routine and habits during the summer months, but there are some ways that you can try to combat the worst of the heat.
Choose Cooling Activities
One way to cool down is to choose fun, cooling activities. Swimming pools offer a great way to get some exercise, spend time with family and friends, and cool your body temperature. Community pools are always a great option, but you may be surprised by how affordable it is to install a pool of your own. There are all kinds of sizes and styles available that will work with nearly any yard space. Financing options are offered to help you fit it comfortably into your budget. These swimming pool contractors San Antonio have great pools that will provide years of fun and a welcome respite from climbing temperatures.
Pace Yourself
During the hottest times of the day, it’s best to limit your time outside. If possible, stay indoors and out of the sun for the majority of the day. If you do need to be outside for any reason, pace yourself. Your body must work harder in oppressive heat so you may strain yourself earlier than you are used to. Go more slowly when engaging in outside activities. Take frequent breaks to rest and get some shade to break up your sun exposure.
Hydrate
Hydration is vital in the hotter locations. Everyone knows how important it is to get enough water intake each day, but this becomes even more essential when you live in the south and deal with frequent heat and humidity. Your body sweats more in an attempt to cool down, and you need to replace the lost water. Carry a water bottle with you everywhere you go and drink constantly throughout the day. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty. At that point, you’re already becoming dehydrated.
Adjust Outdoor Work Hours
Staying out of the sun is a good plan when the thermometer rises, but not possible for everyone. If you have a job that requires you to work outdoors, than you may need to make adjustments to your schedule. A lot of businesses that involve outdoor labor are familiar with the need to change up working hours to stay safe. You should start earlier in the morning and be done before the hottest part of the day in the afternoon. A lot of places open early and close by 11 or 1 for the day to protect employees from exposure to the harshest of the warm weather. Some jobs may even be done at night to avoid the sun.
Even though warm weather can be enjoyable, too much of it is hazardous to your health. Take the needed precautions to protect yourself from any ill effects. A little advance planning and attention to the weather report can keep you from wasting time and still let you enjoy the summer.
