Are you going to travel in extreme heat?

Do not neglect to pack your car for travel in extreme heat. Even a short trip in 90-100 degree weather calls wise for planning.

Temperatures in 70s outside could mean 90-100 in a very few minutes in a stalled car.

Be prepared to wait safely in the heat for help when there is no shade.

How will you protect any elderly or small children with you from heat stroke? Do you know the signs of suffering a heat stroke? Learn what to watch for and how to be of help to those in need.

In winter we pack extra clothing, blankets, ice scrapers and such. In all seasons we need a first aid kit and roadside emergency lights. Here is a simple list of summer extras to prepare you for extreme heat travel.

1. Drinking water: everyone should sip on water even if not thirsty. Even mild dehydration increases cardiac work and reduces fluid available for bodily functions.
2. Large jugs or containers of water; cooling feet and hands in water will pull body temperature down quickly. Note the picture: the cows naturally seek shade and water to cool off in hot summer!
3. Small towels and cloths to dampen and put on neck and shoulders. Pack a small basin to put feet in water and spray bottles to spritz water on faces to cool.
4. Umbrellas: necessary especially if you are caught out in the open air with no breeze or shade available. Reminder: the goal is to get everyone outside the hot vehicle until help arrives.
5. Pack extra comfortable shoes, lightweight clothing, wide-brimmed hats and sweat bands. Lightly colored cotton or linen fabrics retain less heat.
6. Hand or battery operated fans are helpful to cool you off temporarily. However, keep in mind, some sweating is a good thing when it’s hot. It’s our body’s way of cooling us down. (No fans? Simply make sure you have some cardboard or card stock paper to use.)
7. Sun shields for car windows to block out heat when temperatures allow you to stay inside vehicle. NOTE: Always use window shades to protect small children in the back seat. Never leave any child unattended in a vehicle, even for a few moments.
8. Snacks should be “cooling foods.” Fresh, raw foods like vegetables and fruit provide extra hydration; heavier foods such as meats and protein-heavy foods can increase metabolic heat production and add to loss of water.

Good to remember: in hot summer months, smaller meals help keep your core temperature down. Large meals cause the body to work harder.  Eating spicy peppers actually help cool you off by making you sweat and providing a cooling sensation.

Thanks for listening; be sure to share with others and comment on this post.

Hugs,

Here are more tips on helping the elderly keep cool in their homes from the National Center on Caregiving.