Heat stroke kills over 4,000 people annually, and thousands more suffer heat-related illnesses and injuries every year. Heat illness occurs when the body retains more heat than it loses. Core temperature rises as a result. Workers are at greater risk of heat illness when they are dehydrated, not used to working in a hot environment, in poor health, older, or have had heat illness before.

Heat related illness usually have a starting point of dehydration and if ignored or accelerated can lead to heat exhaustion and eventually heat stroke. If you keep your body hydrated, you can generally keep yourself safe all summer long.

If you are someone who works in the elements or just enjoys the outdoors than DRINK FLUIDS!

Let me ask you this question, Have you ever been or are you thirsty right now?

If the answer to this questions is YES than you are or have been dehydrated. At the point that you are thirsty it is to late, it is going to be much harder to re-hydrate yourself. Preventative maitnence is the best way to go.

You have to put oil in the motor of your vehicle to keep it running smoothly and keep the internal parts lubed up. Water does the same thing for your body, you need to keep it lube up and running smooth by puttting fluids in it.

You can learn more about heat illnesses and other summer issues when you take a First Aid class. Learn how to take care of yourself and your family.

Happy Summer Everyone!