SMART CHOICES IN “ HOT ” WEATHER!

1. ATTENTION! SHARE WITH ALL WORKERS ON SITE IMMEDIATELY! SMART CHOICES IN “HOT”WEATHER! • Acclimate to the heat after being off for a few days or more. (Vacation, long holidays etc) Recognize that the body needs up to a week to adapt to the heat. This means to give yourself time to get use to the heat. It will take awhile for your body to adjust. • Always drink water before you are thirsty. • Eat smaller portions of food throughout the day vs. a hot heavy meal at one sitting. • Eat on the lighter side with plenty of fresh fruits and veggies, lean proteins and whole grains.  Staying fueled with these healthier choices will help curb the need to eat heavy.   Your body diverts precious water and energy for digestion away from evaporation.  • Avoid Alcohol prior to (night/day before) working in heat and while working in the heat • Drink less alcohol and caffeine as they contribute to dehydration. • Take breaks in cool, breezy areas • Work at a steady pace – don’t overexert • Be alert to signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke…and get relief! • Wear light colored, lightweight clothing, wear a hat, use sunscreen • Be medically smart -- If you take any prescription or over the counter meds that you have been told can make you more sensitive to sun, heat ……  Then choose to drink more water throughout the day and make sure you take your breaks. • Drink plenty of fluids BEFORE - DURING - AFTER activity of any kind (exercise, yard work, physical labor, etc.). Cool water is the preferred fluid source because it leaves the stomach quickest to cool your body fast. • Be responsible for yourself and the safety of others by being • adequately prepared to work in the hot weather! • Don’t let your Team down by getting too hot! Drink water! Stay • cool! • Watch your co-workers and make sure they stay cool , take • breaks and drink water!