Southeastern Utah District Health Department Press Release
Exposure to heat can cause illness and even death. The most serious heat illness is heat stroke. Other heat illness, such as heat exhaustion, heat cramps and heat rash, should also be avoided. There are precautions you should take any time temperatures are high and the job involves physical work in the sun.
To prevent heat illness you should:
- Drink plenty of cool water. At least one pint of water per hour is needed.
- Avoid beverages containing alcohol or caffeine.
- Schedule frequent rest periods with water breaks in shaded or air conditioned areas.
- Wear lightweight, light colored, loosed fitting clothes.
- Schedule work during the early morning or later in the evening when the temperatures are not so high.
Look for these signs of heat illness:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Weakness
- Nausea
- Heavy sweating
- Confusion
- Fainting