High temperatures can also create risks for people and animals. As a result, the Oklahoma State Department of Health urges residents to avoid heat exhaustion and heat strokes by staying indoors where air conditioning is available. Also, the OSDH suggests that people stay hydrated and increase fluid intake by two to four glasses of cool fluids every hour if they must be outdoors.
“With outdoor temperatures over 100 degrees this week and the summer season barely started, City of Duncan residents are encouraged to check on their neighbors, especially senior citizens, or those with high-risk medical conditions and to contact local nonprofits if assistance is needed,” said Loisdawn Jones, Duncan’s public information director. “Call Heartline 211 to locate assistance options.”
Also, the OSDH said people should monitor children, those with high-risk medical conditions, outdoor workers, people with a mental illness, and never leave anyone in a vehicle. OSDH officials also recommend avoiding liquids that contain alcohol or large amounts of sugar since they cause the body to lose more fluid.
The health department also suggests people wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothes as well as sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of 15 or higher.
Pet owners also need to look after their furry friends during the summer months. The American Red Cross lists several tips for keeping the pets safe.
- Never leave your pet in a hot vehicle, even for a few minutes. The inside
temperature of the car can quickly reach 120 degrees even with the windows cracked open.
- Limit exercise on hot days. Exercise in the early morning or evening hours.
- Walk your pet in the grass, if possible, to avoid hot surfaces burning their paws.
- If your pet is outside, make sure they have access to shade and plenty of cool water.
- Water safety is important for pets. Do not leave pets unsupervised around a pool — they aren’t all good swimmers.
- Watch your pets at a backyard barbecue. Keep them away from the grill and know that some food can be poisonous to them. Avoid raisins, grapes, onions, chocolate and products with artificial sweeteners.