Heat-Related Illness
Extreme Heat Events
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Extreme Heat Alert: Heat Education and Alert Tools
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For more information, please visit: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/extreme-heat-safety-tips
June 24, 2024
Heat-Related Illnesses
Heat Stroke happens when you cannot regulate your body temperature. Your body temperature will rise quickly, your sweating response will fail, and your body will not be able to cool itself. When this happens, your body temperature can rise to 103° F or higher within 10-15 minutes, and if treatment isn't initiated, it can result in permanent disability or even death.
Know the signs and symptoms of heat-related illness and some tips to help prevent them:
Heat-Related Illness: Signs, Symptoms, and Prevention
June 17, 2024 - Heat Advisory
With the upcoming heat advisory, stay cool and informed in the hot weather by following these tips:
• Limit the amount of time you spend in the sun and stay indoors if you can.
• Stay hydrated!
• Try to stay in an air-conditioned space when you can and do not rely on fans as a primary cooling device. Fans create an air flow and false sense of comfort, but does not reduce your bodies temperature or prevent heat-related illnesses.
• Cover windows with drapes or shades.
• Always check your car for children and pets. Heat can rise up 20 degrees in a car in just 10 minutes.
• Take cool showers or baths.
• Check in on your loved one and those at higher risk for heat-related illnesses.
For more information, visit:
https://www.mass.gov/info-details/extreme-heat-safety-tips
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English PDF Version: Here
Skin Safety
Most common cause of skin cancer is from exposure to UV rays in the sunlight.
Don't Fry Day - May 24th
"The Friday before Memorial Day is Don't Fry Day!
The National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention designated the Friday before Memorial Day as Don’t Fry Day. The Council’s goal is to encourage sun safety awareness by reminding everyone to protect their skin while enjoying the outdoors on Don’t Fry Day and every day.
Remember to Slip! Slop! Slap! and Wrap! when you're outdoors. Slip on a shirt, slop on sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher, slap on a hat, and wrap on sunglasses.
Sun Safety Background
While some exposure to sunlight can be enjoyable, too much can be dangerous. Overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can result in a painful sunburn. It can also lead to more serious health problems, including skin cancer, premature aging of the skin, cataracts and other eye damage, and immune system suppression. Children are particularly at risk. Here are simple steps to protect you and your children from overexposure to UV radiation.
Most people are not aware that skin cancer, while largely preventable, is the most common form of cancer in the United States. More than 3.5 million new cases of skin cancer are diagnosed annually. By following some simple steps, you can still enjoy your time in the sun and protect yourself from overexposure. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends these action steps to help you and your family be Sun Safe.
Early detection of melanoma can save your life. A new or changing mole should be evaluated by a dermatologist.
Do NOT Burn
Sunburns significantly increase one's lifetime risk of developing skin cancer, especially for children.
Avoid Sun Tanning and Tanning Beds
UV radiation from tanning beds and the sun causes skin cancer and wrinkling.
Generously Apply Sunscreen
Generously apply about one ounce of sunscreen to cover all exposed skin 15 minutes before going outside. Sunscreen should have a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 15 and provide broad-spectrum protection from both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. Reapply every two hours, even on cloudy days, and after swimming or sweating.
Wear Protective Clothing
Wear protective clothing, such as a long-sleeved shirt, pants, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses, when possible.
Seek Shade
Seek shade when possible, and remember that the sun’s UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Use Extra Caution Near Water, Snow and Sand
Water, snow and sand reflect the damaging rays of the sun, which can increase your chance of sunburn.
Check the UV Index
The UV Index provides important information to help you plan your outdoor activities in ways that prevent sun overexposure. The UV Index forecast is issued daily by the National Weather Service and EPA.
Get Vitamin D Safely
Get Vitamin D safely through a diet that includes vitamin supplements and foods fortified with Vitamin D. Don't seek the sun."
Food Safety
Other helpful food safety tips for the summer:
USDA: Grilling Food Safely
USDA: Food Safety While Hiking, Camping & Boating
FDA: Eating Outdoors: Handling Food Safely
USDA: Hot Dogs and Food Safety
Fire Safety
English PDF Version: Here
Spanish PDF Version: Here
English PDF Version: Here
Spanish PDF Version: Here