This is really a very important TipTow eZine so don’t overlook it because it could save your life. With the summer months upon us it is really important to recognize the warning signs of heat related injuries. If you haven’t had the chance to get any training in first aid or CPR, I certainly suggest you find your local Red Cross Chapter and get some education but here are some very big warning signs and general treatment for heat related injuries.

Heat related symptoms include:

Early Stages:
- Severe Cramps
- Moist, pale, ashen or flushed skin
- Weakness
- Heavy Sweating

Late Stages:
- Red, hot and dry skin
- Vomiting
- Changes in Levels Consciousness

Obviously the best thing you can do to prevent heat related emergencies is to exercise a little caution and respect the power of sudden heat illnesses.

Here are some simple rules to follow that will help keep you safe this summer.

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Schedule your exposure to the heat for cooler times of the day

If the temperature is over 90+ and the humidity level is 60% or above, the temperature is too hot to exercise for any great length of time for most healthy people. However, if you are in some humid areas where the humidity level is 100%, the temperature shouldn’t exceed 85 degrees.

Where light colored clothing – preferably lightweight cotton t-shirts and shorts

Take regular and frequent water breaks.

Don’t wear Oil Based Sunscreen or tanning lotions.

Here are some basic first aid tips that could save your life –

If you find yourself cramping up, stop immediately what you are doing

Find yourself a cool area and start sipping cool fluids. Do not take in large amounts of water.

If you have a towel, soak the towel in cool water and wrap it around your neck, wrists chest, groin and ankles.

Loosen tight clothing

Remove perspiration soaked clothing

And remember, if you are under a Doctors Care for any ailment, none of these general rules apply. Ask your Doctor before you participate in any exercise program, especially when the weather conditions aren’t optimum for your level of fitness.

Randall Gartman
Certified Fitness Specialist and
Lifestyle and Wellness Coach
mailto:randall@randallgartman.com

P.S. By the way, I am moving my coaching members site to http://www.fatlossexplained.com