August 2007

Personal Safety: Hurricane Safety Tips

As we enter into the middle and more active part of hurricane season it is important to keep in mind these helpful definitions.

• HURRICANE WATCH: Hurricane conditions are possible in the specified area of the WATCH, usually within 36 hours.
• HURRICANE WARNING: Hurricane conditions are expected in the specified area of the WARNING, usually within 24 hours.

To find more information on hurricanes and hurricane preparedness please visit the American Red Cross web site at http://www.redcross.org/services/disaster/0,1082,0_587_,00.html

Your Health

With the heat intensifying this August it is critical that everyone takes steps to protect themselves form heat related illness

• Dress for the heat by wearing 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 to 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.
• Eat small meals and eat more often. Avoid foods that are high in protein which increase metabolic heat. Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician.
• 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 4:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m.
• Stay indoors when possible.
• Take regular breaks when engaged in physical activity on warm days.

To find more information on heat-related illnesses, again, please visit the American Red Cross web site at http://www.redcross.org/services/hss/tips/heat.html