Here Comes the Heat: Get Prepared with Red Cross Safety Tips

If you haven't already, get prepared to endure the sweltering heat of Georgia summers!

According to the National Weather Service, extreme heat was the number one weather-related killer of 2010, which caused more fatalities than floods, lightening, tornadoes, hurricanes, winter storms and extreme cold.

The American Red Cross East Georgia Chapter encourages everyone to take precautions to avoid any tragedies caused by our scorching Georgia heat.

Simple measures can be taken to protect yourself and your families from heat related incidents.

Follow these Red Cross safety tips:

• Dress for the heat. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Light colors will reflect away some of the sun's energy. It is also a good idea to wear hats or use an umbrella.
• Drink water. Carry water or juice with you and drink continuously even if you do not feel thirsty.
• Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which dehydrate the body. Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician.
• Eat small meals and eat more often. Avoid high-protein foods, which increase metabolic heat.
• Slow down. Avoid strenuous activity. If you must do strenuous activity, do it during the coolest part of the day, which is usually in the morning between 4 and 7 a.m.
• Stay indoors when possible. If air-conditioning is not available, stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine. Remember that electric fans do not cool, they simply circulate the air.
• Be a good neighbor. During heat waves, check in on elderly residents in your neighborhood and those who do not have air conditioning.
• Learn Red Cross first aid and CPR. Click here for classes being offered at the East Georgia Chapter.

Prepare yourself for a safe summer in the sun!