Part two of a six-part series.

Heat related illness or death is a preventable injury. And, like the elderly, very young kids are most at risk.  So Savvy Aunties need to be aware of the warning signs and know what to do if they suspect their nieces or nephews may be suffering from heat stress.

The way we regulate our temperature in hot conditions is by sweating, which, as it evaporates, cools our bodies.  But on very hot muggy summer days, the humidity in the air prevents this process from working effectively and we are all more at risk for heat-related injuries.  

Heat illness is a spectrum that goes from heat exhaustion to the life-threatening condition called heat stroke. Warning signs of heat-related illness are cool sweaty moist skin with goose bumps in the heat, dizziness, headache, muscle cramps with nausea and vomiting.

Once you notice neurological changes such as confusion, hallucinations, seizures or the person becoming unconscious and lapsing into a coma, that is the life-threatening emergency called heat stroke.

You need to call 911 right away. Any warning symptoms should prompt you to get your nieces and nephews out of the heat and into some place cool while replacing their fluids.

Here are some prevention tips to keep in mind during hot weather to avoid any heat related illness:

-Drink plenty of fluids and if you are sweating a lot, consider sports drinks to replace the salts and minerals.
-Use sunscreen and wear loose, light-colored clothing as well as a brimmed hat.
-Try not to be doing an outdoor activity midday which is the hottest part of the day.
-Pace yourself. If you are exercising in the heat, you should not allow your heart rate to be pounding nor should you allow yourself to feel completely out of breath and gasping for air.

Published: June 20, 2010