Heat Awareness and Summer Safety Tips From Aftermath Services

Today not only marks the start of the Memorial Day weekend; by many, it’s also considered the beginning of the summer season. Furthermore, it is Heat Awareness Day, reminding us that as temperatures increase, so do many health risks. So whether you’re getting ready for a picnic or a BBQ with the family, be sure to check out these 5 helpful tips, designed to keep you safe during the hottest months of the year.

We’re also giving away 10 Aftermath water bottles to our Twitter Followers! Check out our feed to find out how you can retweet our message and win!

1. Stay Cool. Stay Hydrated. Stay Informed.

The CDC urges everyone to stay cool, hydrated, and informed. This means drinking plenty of fluids before, during and after activities. It means dressing in appropriate clothing, taking cool showers, and paying attention to your body. It’s also a good idea to check in on at-risk friends and relatives. Some cities offer cooling centers during extreme heatwaves, for those whose homes lack sufficient air conditioning. Contact your local police or non-emergency number for information.

2. Don’t Forget Pets

Animals suffer from the heat, too. Remember to make sure they have adequate supplies of water and food when you are away, even if just for one afternoon. Fans don’t help animals as much as people because of their furs, so make sure your animal has an air conditioned place to retreat to. Avoid walking dogs on concrete during hot, sunny days – and NEVER EVER leave an animal in a car, even with the windows cracked open. For more ways to keep your furry buddies cool, check out the Humane Society of United States website.

3. Water Safety

There are many articles out there about how to keep kids safe in water during the summer. And while we all know that drinking lots of fluids is key to surviving hot days, be sure to balance this with sports drinks or foods that contain sodium. Sodium helps the body retain water, and prevents the kidneys from overworking. Check out these tips for more information on water intoxication and safety.

4. Avoid a Summer Cold

If you’re planning time away from running water, anti-bacterial wipes and hand sanitizers can help keep icky germs at bay. Bring some along to the beach and on picnics, bike rides, and other outdoor activities. If you do get sick, don’t be tempted to keep going just because everyone else is out having fun. Treat a summer cold with the same seriousness as a winter infection, with extra rest and hydration.

5. Keep an Eye on the Elderly

Check on older relatives, and be sure they have the resources and ability to endure warmer temperatures. On hot and humid days, older people and those with chronic health problems should stay indoors in cool areas. Those without air conditioners relocate to cooler places like senior centers, shopping malls, movie theaters, libraries or community cooling centers. Medications and low-salt diets increase the risk of heat related illness, so be mindful of these situations.

If you suspect someone is suffering from a heat-related illness, get them into a cooler, shadier or air-conditioned area. Encourage the person to shower, bathe or sponge off with cool water if it is safe to do so. Applying a cold, wet cloth to the wrists, neck, and armpits can also help. Offer caffeine-free and alcohol-free beverages only. Call 911 if the victim demonstrates a high body temperature, confusion or combativeness, strong rapid pulse, lack of sweating, dry flushed skin, feeling faint, staggering, or unconsiousness. These are signs of a dangerous and life-threatening condition called a heat stroke.

Happy Memorial Day from Your Friends at Aftermath

As a biohazard cleaning company, one of Aftermath’s central pillars is safety. Our crews provide discreet, compassionate cleaning services to families and businesses who are facing unattended death, suicide, communicable diseases, or other biohazard cleanup. While you gear up for some time out of the office, our technicians are available 24/7 nationwide.