By: Shaina Mae Robles, ITS Traveler's Notebook
03 JUNE 2024 0700H
Summer is a wonderful time to explore new destinations, enjoy outdoor activities, and soak up the sun. However, it’s also a season when high temperatures can pose serious health risks if proper precautions aren’t taken. To ensure you have a safe and enjoyable summer trip, it’s essential to be aware of heat safety tips
These guidelines will help you stay cool, hydrated, and protected from the sun, reducing the risk of heat-related illnesses.
Heat Safety Tips: Do's
SUNSCREEN
Use sunscreen with SPF 50+ when going outside. Reapply every two hours to ensure maximum protection from harmful UV rays.
STAY HYDRATED
Drink plenty of water throughout the day. It's essential to keep your body hydrated to prevent heat-related illnesses. Avoid alcohol and caffeinated beverages as they can dehydrate you and increase the risk of heat exhaustion.
CLOTHING
Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing and a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from the sun. Choose breathable fabrics to stay cool.
PLAN AHEAD
Check the weather forecast and plan outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon This helps to avoid the peak heat hours.
Heat Safety Tips: Don'ts
DON'T OVEREXPOSE
Don't stay in the sun for extended periods, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM, when the sun’s rays are the strongest.
DON'T IGNORE SYMPTOMS
Don't ignore signs of heat exhaustion or dehydration. Seek help if feeling unwell. Symptoms include dizziness, headache, rapid heartbeat, and confusion.
AVOID HOT CARS
Never leave children or pets in a parked car, even for a short time. The temperature inside a car can rise rapidly to dangerous levels.
DON'T USE HEAVY BACKPACKS
Avoid carrying heavy backpacks or bags that can increase your body temperature. Opt for lighter loads to stay cooler.
The heat index is a measure of how hot it feels when relative humidity is factored in with the actual air temperature. It is crucial to understand the heat index as it can significantly impact your health and safety during summer.
Here’s what different heat index levels mean
Heat Index
27°C - 32°C. CAUTION
33°C - 41°C EXTREME CAUTION
42°C - 51°C DANGER
52°C AND BEYOND EXTREME DANGER
Emergency Hotline Numbers
RED CROSS TEL: 143, (02) 911-1876
DOH: (632) 8651-7800 Local 4203, 4225-27, 4250-54
We want you fellow wanderers to be healthy as you travel so don't forget our tips and keep hydrated fellow wanderers! (Reporting by Shaina Mae Robles, ITS Traveler's Notebook).
Comments