Prevent Heat Illness

Know the factors, symptoms, and preventative measures against heat illness.

Factors

Environmental risk factors affect the likelihood of developing heat illness. Air temperature and relative humidity affect the heat index. A high heat index creates dangerous working conditions. Use this chart to determine the relative danger:

Your personal situation also affects your risk of developing heat illness. Take into account the following when you assess your risk:

Age, weight, and personal fitness.
Water consumption.
Past heat-related illness episodes.
Diet with heavy foods, alcohol, and caffeine.
Nicotine use.
Existing medical conditions.
Certain medications (for allergies, cough/cold, blood pressure, heart, bladder or bowel, seizure, thyroid, diuretics (water pills), or mental health).

Symptoms

Use the table below to know the symptoms and responses for heat illness:

Prevention

When in the heat, drink water every hour.

Avoid soft drinks and other sugary beverages.
Avoid large amounts of hot or cold coffee and tea.

Note: You should not normally take salt tablets when working in

the heat. Ask your doctor before you take salt tablets.

Wear proper clothing that protects you from the sun and allows airflow to the body:

Choose light colored and lightweight clothing to reflect the sunlight. See: Sun Protection
Choose clothing made of natural fibers for airflow.

When outdoors, follow these steps:

Stay in the shade or out of direct sun when possible.
Take your rest breaks in shady areas.
Use canopies, umbrellas, and other structures to provide shade.

Monitor risk factors to reduce the risk of heat illness, such as:

Air temperature, humidity, and corresponding heat index

(the higher the index, the higher the risk).

Direct heat from the sun or other sources and reflected heat from the ground.
Level of exertion required to do the task.
Your age, weight, diet, and personal fitness level.
Your caffeine and nicotine use.
Your medical conditions and certain medications that can affect heat tolerance.

Understand the signs and symptoms of heat illness.

If you recognize signs of heat illness, get appropriate help.