Beat The Heat
When the Heat Rises, So Do the Health Risks
Summer brings beautiful blue skies, outdoor gatherings, cultural events, and time spent with family, but it also brings high temperatures that can affect our health. As our climate continues to warm, hot days are becoming more frequent, lasting longer, and increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses. While hot weather may seem simply uncomfortable, excessive heat can have serious health impacts, especially for elders, young children, people with chronic health conditions, and those who work or exercise outdoors. Whether you’re working outside, attending community events, gardening, caring for livestock, or simply enjoying time outdoors, taking steps to stay cool, hydrated, and protected from the heat can help keep you and your loved ones safe.
How Heat Affects the Body
When temperatures rise, your body works harder to cool itself. Without enough water and rest, this can lead to heat-related illnesses such as:
Heat cramps: Muscle cramps caused by dehydration.
Heat exhaustion: Heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, or fainting.
Heat stroke: A medical emergency that may cause confusion, loss of consciousness, seizures, or a body temperature above 103°F. Call 911 immediately if someone shows these signs.
Environmental Health and Extreme Heat
Extreme heat doesn't just affect our bodies; it also impacts the environment around us. Hot weather can lead to:
Poor air quality and wildfire smoke can make breathing difficult, especially for those with asthma or lung disease.
Food left out during gatherings can spoil quickly in the heat, increasing the risk of foodborne illness.
Strong sun exposure increases the risk of sunburn, dehydration, and heat illness.
Dry conditions increase wildfire risk, making it important to follow local fire safety guidance.
Heat and Diabetes
People living with diabetes should take extra precautions during hot weather. High temperatures can make it more difficult to control blood sugar levels, and dehydration can happen more quickly. Some medications may also affect how the body responds to heat.
If you have diabetes:
Drink water throughout the day.
Monitor your blood sugar more often during hot weather.
Keep insulin and medications out of direct sunlight and excessive heat.
Talk with your healthcare provider if you have questions about managing diabetes during the summer.
Tips for Staying Safe
Drink water regularly, even before you feel thirsty.
Wear light-colored, lightweight clothing and a wide-brimmed hat.
Plan outdoor work or exercise during the early morning or evening when temperatures are cooler.
If working or exercising outdoors, take frequent breaks in the shade or an air-conditioned space.
Wear sunscreen and sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes.
Never leave children, elders, or pets in a parked vehicle.
Check on elders, neighbors, and family members who may be more vulnerable to heat (or who may need extra assistance during hot weather)
Keep healthy snacks and water available during community events and outdoor activities.
Looking Out for One Another
One of the greatest strengths of Jemez is the way we care for one another. During periods of extreme heat, a simple phone call, message, or helping hand can make a meaningful difference.
By staying informed, staying connected, and supporting one another, we can help keep our community safe and healthy during hot weather.
Stay hydrated. Stay cool. Stay connected. Together, we can beat the heat.
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