Contact:  Julie Christensen, U of M Extension Service, 612-626-4077, reuve007@umn.edu

Take precautions to avoid heat illness when working outside

ST. PAUL, Minn. (7/21/2006)- As summer temperatures continue to heat up, a University of Minnesota expert reminds people working outside, homeowners doing yard work and others enjoying outdoor recreational activities to take precautions to avoid heat exhaustion and heat stroke, a life-threatening emergency.

Heat-related illness kills as many people each year in the U.S. as floods, tornadoes, lightning and cold weather combined, says John Shutske, professor and safety and health specialist with the University of Minnesota Extension Service. During a 10-year period from 1995 through 2004, the National Weather Service reported an annual average of 235 fatalities from hot weather.

Groups of particular concern include agricultural and construction workers and those who work in the landscaping and horticultural industries, Shutske says. Also at risk are homeowners doing yard work, joggers, hikers and those playing organized sports.

Excessive heat exposure can result in impaired thinking and decision making, often leading to accidents or serious mistakes.

"This is especially an issue when people are operating complex and dangerous equipment like farm machines, chain saws and lawn care equipment," Shutske said.

For community activities like fairs, sports events and festivals, most community groups will have a plan that indicates when events might be canceled or postponed based on the combined temperature and humidity. Shutske recommends listening to weather and news reports or consulting a local health professional if people have questions or concerns.

For people who work outside, Shutske offers the following tips to help avoid heat illness:

• Try to plan strenuous tasks for the cooler times of the day (morning or very late afternoon).

• Communicate specific precautions to workers in a language they understand, and make sure they clearly understand your instructions about the risks and can demonstrate safe practices.

• Take frequent breaks and get out of the heat if possible as you rest.

• Wear lightweight, light colored, loose fitting clothing. A hat will protect you from the sun, but should be loose and well-ventilated.

• Drink often. Dehydration is a major cause of heat-related health problems. Water is the best all-around drink for most outdoor workers. Sports drinks that contain a bit of salt and electrolytes are OK to drink, but avoid sugary drinks and caffeine.

Heat-related illness includes heat exhaustion, which can rapidly progress to heat stroke, a life-threatening emergency. According to the American Red Cross, signs of heat exhaustion include: cool, moist, pale or flushed skin; heavy sweating; headache; nausea or vomiting; dizziness; and exhaustion. Body temperature will be near normal.

According to the Red Cross, signs of heat stroke include: hot, red skin; changes in consciousness; rapid, weak pulse; and rapid, shallow breathing. Body temperature can be very high, reaching 105 degrees Fahrenheit.

Source: John Shutske, professor and Extension safety and health specialist, (612) 626-1250

NOTE: News releases were current as of the date of issue. If you have a question on older releases, use the news release search (upper left-hand column of the News main page) or the main Extension search (upper right of this page) to locate more recent information.

URL: http:// www.extension.umn.edu/extensionnews/2005/takeprecautions.html  This page was updated July 21, 2006 .
Online Privacy Statement.  Contact Information.

University of Minnesota Extension is an equal opportunity educator and employer.
Copyright  ©  Regents of the University of Minnesota.  All rights reserved.