Hot Weather Tips

During the late Spring and Summer months, heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke can occur. East Hartford Health and Human Services encourages residents to take proper precautions, especially during heat waves. Keep an eye on the weather, Town announcements, or the CDC HeatRisk Calculator to know when to take extra precautions for hot weather. Refer to CT DPH for more tips!

Those at higher risk of heat-related illness include:

• Infants and young children
• People 65 years of age or older
• Adults and children with asthma
• Pregnant women
• People with heart disease or other chronic illnesses*
• People who work outside or are exercising outside

*For those taking medications, talk with your doctor about how to prepare for extreme heat.

Symptoms of Overheating:

• Muscle cramping
• Heavy sweating
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness
• Weakness
• Headaches
• Nausea

When experiencing these symptoms, get to a cool place as soon as possible.

General Heat-Related Illness Prevention Tips:

• Stay in an air-conditioned environment as much as possible.
• If your home does not have air-conditioning, seek out air-conditioned public spaces (i.e. malls, libraries, etc.) or cooling centers by calling 2-1-1.
• Use fans, but only if indoor temperatures are less than 90°F. In temperatures above 90°F, a fan can increase body temperature.
• Limit outdoor activity to when it is coolest: early in the morning or later in the evening.
• When outside, try to stay in the shade.
• When exercising or working outside, take breaks often.
• Reduce exercise levels when in extreme heat.
• Take a cool shower to cool off.
• Monitor your urine color! When dark yellow, you are dehydrated and should drink more. When light yellow, you are hydrated and drinking enough.
• Do not leave children or pets in cars! During heat waves, the internal temperature of a car can heat up faster than you would think!  
• Check on your friends and family throughout the day who are at higher risk.                                                                                                                                 

Clothing Related Tips:

• Wear lightweight, light colored, and moisture-wicking clothing.
• Wear wide brimmed hats and sunglasses when outdoors.
• Wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or greater and apply 30 minutes prior to sun exposure. Make sure to reapply throughout the day!

Food and Beverage Related Tips:

• Use your stove and oven less to maintain a cooler temperature in your home.
• Avoid hot and heavy meals.
• Consume cold, light foods such as salads, cold pasta dishes, fruits and vegetables, cold sandwiches sandwiches, etc.
• Drink more fluids throughout the day, such as water and electrolyte drinks, to prevent dehydration.
• Carry a water bottle with you throughout the day to remind you to drink frequently. An aluminum or stainless steel water bottle may help keep your beverage colder compared to plastic.
• Keep children and pets hydrated, too!
• Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages, which can dehydrate you.