Popular Ways to Beat the Heat
By Searrah Herendeen
Summer in the Great Lake State can't be beaten. There are many trails to explore, places to see, and events to enjoy. While adventuring, it is crucial to remember summer safety. Every year children and adults, and even pets, experience heat stroke, and sunburns during the summer. The Meijer State Games of Michigan Summer Games want to help keep the community safe by reminding them of ways to beat the heat this summer. The statements in this article are based on opinion and secondary research. Please consult a health care professional if you or someone else is experiencing problems due to heat and sun exposure.
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Stay hydrated
Drinking water is going to keep your body hydrated. Over 50% of our body is water. It is crucial to keep our organs working and our bodies from overheating. In the summer, the human body produces more sweat to try and cool it down. This means the body will need more water to replenish what is sweated out. Not drinking enough water can cause heat-related issues such as heat stroke.
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Use sun protection
The most common form of sun protection is sunscreen. There are numerous options in the market. There are sprays, and creams, ones that are for babies, some are made long-lasting during water activities, and much more. Sun protection is essential, even when the sky is full of clouds. The sun produces ultraviolet rays that can harm a person's skin. These rays can damage skill cells and cause cancer.
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Dress for the weather
Sun-protective clothing is one option. This may not be cost-effective for some families, but wearers don't have to worry about reapplying sunscreen. Some brands offer clothing and accessory lines for children and adults. Staying in the shade or wearing a hat can also help. Try to wear clothes that lets your skin breathe and release sweat. Try to avoid wearing dark colored, or thick clothes. Capris and khaki shorts are a great alternative to long pants. Protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses.
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Keep cool
Exposure to heat for an extended period can cause many different things to happen. Heat can cause cramps, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, headaches, nausea, dizziness, and confusion. Symptoms of a heat stroke are confusion, slurred speech, loss of consciousness, hot or dry skin, seizures, and high body temperature. If you feel like you are starting to overheat, you should find a way to cool down. Sitting in an air-conditioned room or in front of a fan is one way to beat the heat. A cold shower or swimming in a pool or lake is another option. When exercising outside, try to pick the time of day when it is coolest.
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Monitor your pets
Animals can experience heat strokes and water intoxication. First, never leave pets or children in a vehicle when it is hot outside. They need to have access to shade and water when outdoors. To tell if a dog is having a heat stroke Krista Wiliams from VCA Animal Hospitals says to look for an elevated breathing rate, dry or sticky and abnormally colored gums, lethargy, disorientation, and seizures. Dogs that like to swim in water should also be watched for signs of water intoxication. Joanna Lou from The Wildest explains that water intoxication is rare and happens mostly to dogs that swim and drink the water. The dogs will have, “lack of coordination, lethargy, nausea, bloating, vomiting, dilated pupils, glazed eyes, light gum color, and excessive salivation.” Make sure your pets can stay cool and hydrated. Concrete and asphalt can get hot quick. Leaving them at home during your event will prevent burnt paws and possible vet bills.
The Meijer State Games of Michigan is a multi-sport, Olympic-style event(s) that welcome athletes regardless of age or ability level. The Games embody the values of participation, sportsmanship and healthy living.