Summer Heat Safety

Summer in the Antelope Valley can be beautiful, and it can also be dangerous. Temperatures often climb past 100 degrees, and our dry air can make it hard to notice how much fluid you are losing. Heat related illness is preventable, and knowing the signs can save a life.

Who is most at risk

Anyone can get sick from the heat, but some people are at higher risk:

• Adults over 65
• Infants and young children
• People who work or exercise outdoors
• People with heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease or high blood pressure
• People who take certain medicines
• People without air conditioning at home

Medicines and heat

This is something we talk about at the counter every summer. Some medicines can make it harder for your body to stay cool, cause you to lose more fluid, or make you more sensitive to the sun. Examples include some water pills, some blood pressure medicines, some mental health medicines and some allergy medicines. Do not stop any medicine on your own. Instead, ask us how your medicines may affect you in the heat.

Heat can also damage medicines. Do not leave medicines, inhalers, insulin or test strips in a hot car. Store them as directed, away from heat and sunlight.

If you take daily medicines, ask your pharmacist one simple question this summer: how does the heat affect me?

Simple ways to stay safe

Drink water throughout the day, even before you feel thirsty. Limit alcohol and very sugary drinks. Stay indoors in air conditioning during the hottest hours, usually late morning to early evening. If you do not have air conditioning, visit a cooling center, library or mall. Wear light colored, loose clothing and a wide hat. Take cool showers. Plan outdoor work and walks for early morning. Check on older neighbors and family members, and never leave children or pets in a parked car.

Heat exhaustion can cause heavy sweating, cool and clammy skin, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea and muscle cramps. Move to a cool place, loosen clothing, sip water and rest. Get medical help if symptoms get worse or last more than an hour.

Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Signs include a very high body temperature, hot red skin that may be dry or damp, a fast pulse, confusion, slurred speech, and fainting. Call 911 right away. While waiting, move the person to a cooler place and cool them with wet cloths or a cool bath. Do not give fluids to someone who is confused or not fully awake.

Let us help you stay home

On the hottest days, you do not need to come out. We offer free prescription delivery across the Antelope Valley, and Med Sync can line up all your refills on one day each month.

Call us at 661.941.4402 to set up free delivery or a free medication review.

This article is general education, not medical advice.