Stay safe - beat the heat!

People with disabilities and chronic medical conditions are less likely to sense and respond to changes in temperatures, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC recommends the following to help you stay safe during these hot summer months.

• Drink more water than usual and don't wait until you're thirsty to drink.
• Check on a friend or neighbor, and have someone do the same for you.
• Check the local news for health and safety updates regularly.
• Don't use the stove or oven to cook——it will make you and your house hotter.
• Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
• Take cool showers or baths to cool down.
• Seek medical care immediately if you or someone you know experiences symptoms of heat-related illness.

Medications can also cause additional risk during extreme heat. The Ohio Department of Mental Health provides information about specific medications that react differently in heat and prevention tips in its brochure: Heat-Related Illness In Individuals Using Psychiatric Medication (PDF file)

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