Top 6 'stays' to beat the heat

  • Published
  • By 501st Combat Support Wing Public Affairs
  • 501st Combat Support Wing
1. Stay Indoors.
"Limit your exposure to the sun during extreme temperatures. Sunburn slows the skin's ability to cool itself. If you are outside, use sunscreen with a high SPF (Sun Protection Factor) rating. Use sunscreen, regardless of your skin tone," said Tech Sgt. LeeGale Irving, 501st Combat Support Wing ground safety manager.

2. Stay protected.
"Be sure to protect your face, head and neck. Using sunscreen, scarves and hats can help protect you skin form the sun's effects." said Irving.

3. Stay with your children.
"You should NEVER leave your child or pet unattended in a car, even with the windows down. Children's body temperatures warm up to 5 times faster than adults. Leaving kids and animals in a hot vehicle is inhumane and in some places, illegal," said Tech. Sgt. Aaron Miller, 423rd Air Base Group ground safety manager.

4. Stay informed.
"Check the local news for extreme weather alerts and safety tips. Many radio and television news broadcasts will notify you of extreme weather and give you tips on how to beat the heat," said Irving.

5. Stay cool.
"Take cold showers or baths if needed. It is very important to control you core temperature. Cooling your core is key. Don't rely on fans to cool you. Electric fans do not cool the air, but they do help evaporate sweat, which cools your body. If you do not have air conditioning, stay on your lowest floor, out of the sun," said Irving.

6. Stay sober.
"Limit your alcohol intake while in extreme heat conditions. They can actually dehydrate you, which counteracts your cooling attempts. If you must drink while in extreme heat, it's a good idea to supplement each alcoholic beverage with an 8 ounce glass of water to stay hydrated," said Miller.