Big Daddy, I’m having a rough time working in the yard in the heat! How do the commercial guys do it out there all day?!-BM

The heat is ON! This is actually an excellent question that goes beyond just your body acclimating to the higher temps. Although it’s obvious that if you are in air conditioning all day that your tolerance for the high temps is going to be very low, there are some very important safety measures you need to be aware of while working outside, whether mowing the lawn, weeding or washing the car.

The number one thing is to protect your skin from the sun and keep hydrated. SPF 30 or higher sunblock, light colored clothing and a hat are all musts. Work as early as possible to avoid the heat of the day. Drink plenty of clear fluids during the day, starting BEFORE you begin working! No caffeine, no alcohol, no carbonation! Water, juice and sports drinks, the clearer the better. Generally, if you are feeling thirsty, you are already behind on your hydration. Headaches, cramping, severe sweating…these are just a few of the warning signs of heat damage setting in! Get into a cool place, get the fluids going and get your body temp down! Icepacks, running cold water over pressure points or even a wet cloth on the back of the neck can all help!

Listen to your body, if you begin to feel weak or dizzy, feel overheated or extremely thirsty, sunburnt or sick to your stomache, get out of the heat and cool down right now! Overheating can lead to heatstroke/sunstroke which can mean death! Learn to take the precautions that the pros use to stay safe and remember these following tips.

Increase your intake of non-alcoholic, non-carbonated, caffeine-free beverages such as water and juice. Hydrate BEFORE you begin to work.

Wear clothing that is light in color and loose fitting.

Keep the sun off while outside. Hats, sunblock and long sleeves/pants can all help with this goal.

Avoid the outdoors during extreme heat. Stay out of the sun in the afternoon when possible.

Eat less foods that increase metabolic activity/heat. Proteins are an example. Increased metabolic heat Increases water loss.