Summer is in full swing and temperatures are reaching over 100 degrees without the heat index and that’s enough to cause heat exhaustion and heat stroke. While air conditioning is nice, many households either don’t have it or keep it off or on a high temperature to save money. If you’re doing any cleaning in the heat, indoors or out, make sure you stay safe.

Hydration is Key to Safe Cleaning

When you’re doing any type of physical activity in the heat, you’re going to sweat. If you’re focused on cleaning, you may not even notice how much until you start feeling light headed. When your body gets overheated, the primary way it cools itself is through sweating. Dehydration keeps your body from sweating effectively and sweating will dehydrate your body. It’s important to drink plenty of fluids, especially water or sports drinks with electrolytes, to maintain a healthy level of hydration. Do not drink caffeinated soda, energy drinks or alcohol. These can actually hasten dehydration and keep the body from regulating temperature properly.

Take Regular Breaks Throughout the Day

Once you start cleaning, it’s easy to lose track of time. It may seem like only a little time has passed, but hours have gone by. Heat plus activity is a recipe for heat exhaustion, so take breaks every now and then to help your body cool down.  It’s also a good idea to wear light clothing to keep weight down. Additional weight means harder work and a more likely chance of overheating.

Don’t wait until your start feeling bad to take a break. Set an alarm to go off every half hour or 45 minutes, depending on the heat and the amount of effort. Take a 10 minute break and drink some water.

Signs of Heat Exhaustion

When your body can’t’ cool down as fast as it heats up, your body starts to develop heat exhaustion. If the heat is extreme and you don’t get help, then it can develop into a life threatening condition called heatstroke.

Signs of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating and rapid pulse as your body tries to cool itself down. You might begin to feel faint and dizzy, develop a headache and possible muscle cramps. Stop what you’re doing right away if you experience any of these symptoms.

Illinois Valley Clean Team is very cognizant of your health and the health of our employees. If you want a hassle-free home cleaning, then contact us today for a free quote.