The soaring temperatures and scorching sun of a Texas summer can put a strain on your health and safety, especially if you work outdoors, in hot environments or on the road. No matter where you work, it’s important to make plans to stay cool and safe throughout the season.
Staying cool and hydrated
Heat-related illnesses occur when the body becomes overheated because it’s not able to lose enough heat to balance what’s being generated by physical work and external sources like environmental conditions. These can range from mild heat cramps to a life-threatening heat stroke. However, planning and early interventions can prevent serious health complications.
- Acclimatize yourself when working in the heat by starting at 20% of your workload and increasing another 20% each day.
- Drink at least one cup of water every 15-20 minutes, regardless of thirst or time of day.
- Choose water or sports drinks over ones that are sugary or caffeinated.
- Take breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.
- If anyone experiences severe signs of heat stress such as slurred speech, seizures or loss of consciousness, call 911 right away.
Reducing sun exposure
Sun exposure is a major risk factor for skin cancer, the most diagnosed type of cancer in the U.S., according to the American Cancer Society. By taking steps to protect your skin from the sun, you can significantly reduce your risk and keep yourself cooler as well.
- Seek shade during peak sun hours (typically 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) even if it means working beneath a sunshade.
- Wear sunscreen and loose, lightweight, light-colored, protective clothing, such as long sleeves, pants and a wide-brimmed hat.
- Protect your eyes with sunglasses that block UVA and UVB rays.
Keeping cool on the road
In addition to extreme heat, the summer can bring increased traffic and distracted driving, along with impaired driving caused by those under the influence of alcohol or those affected by heat exhaustion. It’s critical to prioritize safe driving habits.
- Never drive if you are under the influence of alcohol or substances.
- Regularly check the pressure in your tires and inflate them to the recommended level to help prevent blowouts due to hot weather.
- Manage glare by using sunglasses with 99-100% UVA/UVB protection and keeping your windshield clean.
- Avoid using any electronics while driving, including your phone and navigation system.
- Be aware of erratic driving behavior and increase following distances to give yourself more reaction time.
By following simple safety tips, you can stay safe, healthy and productive throughout the Texas summer.
