June 2012 lesson on Summer Heat

Did you know that heat kills more people than hurricanes, tornadoes, and thunder storms combined?
Did you know that the electric air conditioner was invented 110 years ago in Buffalo, NY?
Did you know that small children and the elderly are more susceptible to heat.
This month we look at ways to keep cool and safe in the summer heat

June 3
Keeping cool isn't just about comfort. High temperature and high humidity contribute to heat related illnesses
* Heat exertion can cause painful muscle spasms. If you get cramps, rest in a cool area and rehydrate.
* Heat exhaustion - Can be a precursor of heatstroke; symptoms include heavy sweating, rapid breathing and a fast, weak pulse. You must immediately be rehydrated with water, salt and minerals.
* With heat stroke the body stops sweating and body temperature soars. This can be fatal. Call 911, get the victim out of the heat and
cool them with wet towels or wet clothing. Do NOT force drinking if victim is confused.

June 10
No air conditioner? Try water! Spritz yourself with a refrigerated spray bottle of water, soak feet in cold water, run cold water over your wrists for 10 seconds, put a wet towel on the back of your neck or forehead, wet your hair or hat or shirt, take a cold shower or go swimming.  And drink plenty of water - don't wait to be thirsty to drink.

June 17
NEVER leave pets, children, or elderly in a closed, parked vehicle; even for "a few minutes." When the outside temperature is 70, the temperature inside the car can quickly exceed 120, even when the windows are partially open. Pets are very susceptible to heat stroke in parked cars because they don't sweat.

June 24
If you don't have air-conditioning, visit a shopping mall, public library, grocery store, or other cooled place. Many cities open cooling centers on sweltering days. At home your basement is the coolest spot. Use curtains to block the sun by day and open windows at night. Fans help but only at temperatures below 90 F.

----------------------------------------------------

For More Information:
http://www.consumerenergycenter.org/tips/staycool.html
http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=52796
http://www.wikihow.com/Cool-Yourself-Without-Air-Conditioning
http://livinggreenandsavingenergy.com/how-to-stay-cool-this-summer-without-air-conditioning.html