Philly Leader

Summers are hotter in the city. Asphalt streets, concrete sidewalks and rows upon rows of office buildings, retail stores, industrial complexes and residences retain the sun’s heat. With fewer trees providing shade and fewer grassy areas to absorb the sun’s rays, summer in the city can be downright dangerous. Deadly even.

As temperatures typically rise in July and August and heat waves sometimes strike for days or even weeks, the Health Department is urging Philadelphians to take care of themselves this summer. Be mindful, also, of loved ones and neighbors, especially the city’s most vulnerable populations. Elderly people, infants and young children who rely on adults for care, pregnant people, and people who live alone or are sick or infirm are particularly susceptible to many heat-related illnesses and health problems that can worsen as temperatures soar. Be mindful, too, of people who live and work in sections of the city that are hotter than others. They are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses and complications as well. Check on them regularly and often with phone calls, texts or emails. After sending texts or emails, look for timely responses. Better yet, stop by for a visit and bring along a cool summer treat like fresh fruit salad or frozen yogurt.

Hydrate and Rehydrate

During the city’s hottest summer days, people tend to sweat more and that can lead to dehydration. So, it’s important to rehydrate with plenty of fluids. While you might think a frozen Margarita or a frosty mug of your favorite IPA is just what you need to feel better at the end of a hot day, think again. Alcohol is a diuretic, which means when you drink it, you will urinate, or pee, more. Drink too much alcohol and you’ll become even more dehydrated. So go easy. Water is best if you want to stay hydrated. And you do. But, if you’re going to unwind with beer or cocktails at the end of the day, keep a bottle of water on hand and take alternate sips. Beer. Then water. Frozen Margarita. Water.

Why Hydration is So Important

Water is a life force. Without it we become dehydrated and that can quickly turn serious and even life-threatening. For example, as we lose fluid our blood becomes more concentrated, making our heart work harder to efficiently pump blood throughout our bodies. For someone who has high blood pressure or heart disease, that could be particularly dangerous and could lead to a heart attack or stroke or worse yet, death.

For some people, dehydration can also lead to shortness of breath or other breathing difficulties as their nasal passages, bronchial tubes and lungs begin to dry out. That could be especially worrisome for people with lung diseases, such as asthma and COPD, or respiratory infections, like influenza and COVID-19. You’ll breathe easier when you’re hydrated. You’ll breathe easier knowing your friends and family are properly hydrated too. So, drink up. And, once again, check on your neighbors and loved ones. While you’re at it, stop by the grocery store and pick up some food that is high in water content. Vegetables such as celery, cucumbers and broccoli, and fruits like watermelon, cantaloupe and peaches are especially good.

Nice and Easy Does It

Exercise and strenuous activities can be extremely dangerous on hot summer days. So, forgo that brisk walk or run when temperatures soar. Light workouts indoors are much better options on days like these. Be sure to rest as well. Maybe exercise your mind by reading a book or doing a crossword puzzle but please save extreme physical activities for cooler days. If you must go outside, wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothes. Also, light-colored clothing absorbs less heat so choose whites and pastels; leave black and navy for cooler days or nights on the town.

Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke

Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are two serious heat-related illnesses. Look out for them. Heat exhaustion occurs when someone has been hot for an extended period and their body has lost a lot of water and salt through sweating. Symptoms may include heavy sweating, fast heart rate, dizziness, nausea, exhaustion and headache. Heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke so proceed with caution. Rehydrate, move to a cool area and lie down.

Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Without proper emergency treatment, it can cause death or permanent disability. Call 911 immediately if you suspect someone has heat stroke. Symptoms may include a high body temperature above 103 degrees, red, hot and dry skin without sweat, headache, nausea, confusion and unconsciousness. Heat stroke occurs when someone has been hot for an extended period and their body cannot control its temperature.

Stay Cool

Throughout the summer, find relief from summer heat at City pools and spraygrounds. They’re there for you so take advantage of them.

Also, during extremely hot weather, the City may declare a Heat Health Emergency. During Heat Health Emergencies, the City establishes Cooling Centers at some locations like libraries. The Cooling Centers will have extended hours so that people without air conditioning can take refuge from extreme heat for longer periods of time. Sign up for ReadyPhiladelphia for text and email notifications about heat and other emergencies.

During Heat Health Emergencies, the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging activates a HeatLine at 215-765-9040. Anyone in Philadelphia can call the HeatLine and talk with a nurse who can help answer their questions and provide recommendations on keeping cool.

In addition, the City may declare a Code Red to protect people who are homeless. If you see someone on the street who needs help, call our Outreach Team at 215-232-1984 or call 911 if there is a medical emergency.

Be Well This Summer

The city offers a wide variety of summer activities for just about anyone to enjoy. From food festivals and Phillies games to live concerts and firework displays, there’s so much to do. The Health Department wants you to take advantage of all that the summer and the city has to offer. We think one of the best ways to do that is to stay well. Let’s take care of ourselves and each other this summer so that we can do it all again next year.

Original source can be found here.