Florida Injury Lawyer Blog
South Florida and Homestead are known for their beautiful weather, but all the sunshine and heat can mean heat-related illnesses, such as sunstroke and heat exhaustion. To stay safe this summer, you’ll want to take these precautions:
1) Watch weather forecasts.
Set up an app on your phone or watch regularly so you’ll be alerted if there is a heat warning in your area. You will be given extra advice if there is, giving you the information you need to stay safe.
2) Wear sunscreen, a hat, and other sun protection.
Sun protection can help you avoid glare, sunburns, and other concerns. A high SPF sunscreen can help you prevent sunburns and can lower your risk of skin cancer. A hat and sunglasses can shade your eyes and protect your face and head, reducing your risk of heat exhaustion and sunstroke. A shaded umbrella or shady spot can also help you stay out of direct sunlight and out of the highest heat.
3) Stay inside on the hottest days.
On very hot days, consider staying inside and using a fan or air conditioner to stay cool. This is the best way to prevent heat exhaustion and other heat related illnesses. Be especially cautious of being outdoors between 11 AM and 3 PM, when the sun is at its highest – and hottest. Consider scheduling errands and exertions outside of these high heat hours, especially if you plan on being outside.
4) Be careful of overexertion outside when heat is at its highest.
If you do have to go outside on hot days – especially during peak sun hours – be careful about overexerting yourself. These are not the days and the time to run around, play active sports outside, or do yard work. If you do need to play outside or want to exercise during peak sun hours, take frequent breaks, head inside or into the shade, and stay hydrated.
5) Stay hydrated.
Drink lots of water to avoid dehydration. Carry a water bottle with you and refresh with water rather than caffeinated drinks, which can be dehydrating.
6) Protect children, pets, and loved ones.
Know the signs of heat illness. Any signs of unconsciousness, slurred speech, disorientation, very reddened skin, blistering, or any other symptoms of heat illness should be treated seriously. If you have pets, keep them inside during hot days and offer them plenty of water. They can get overheated, too.
Children can be especially vulnerable to heat because they like to run outside in the sun. Make sure they are slathered up with sunscreen and wear hats. If they play outside, bring them into the shade or indoors regularly so they can take a break from the sun. If you have elderly loved ones, ensure they have air-conditioning, fans, and other ways to stay cool.
If you feel that an elderly loved one or child have suffered heat illness due to nursing home or day care negligence, contact Flaxman Law Group for a free accident consultation. We can help explain what rights your family has in the situation in a free case analysis.