With temperatures expected in the high 90°s and heat indexes nearing 100° throughout this week (June 18 – 24), UNC Environment, Health and Safety would like to remind you to take special precautions to avoid heat‐related illness in unusually hot weather when working outdoors or in unconditioned indoor environments.
Beat the Heat: Three Simple Steps
Heat illness can be prevented. Remember these three things: water, rest and shade.
- WATER: Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink water. A good rule of thumb is to drink 4 cups of water every hour. It is best to drink a small amount of water every 15 minutes.
Remember: Caffeine and Alcohol are diuretics – They strip the body of fluids. If you drink coffee in the morning and/or alcohol last night you MUST replenish the body with lots of fluids. Even if you only had a few beers last night – You need to drink several glasses of water before you start your day.
- REST: Rest breaks help your body recover.
- SHADE: Resting in the shade or in air-conditioning helps you cool down.
Visit the EHS Heat Stress webpage for more information.