Heat illness prevention

Heat illness can go from cramps to a medical emergency in less than an hour. Water, rest and shade are the defense.

Key points

• Drink water often, about a cup every 15 to 20 minutes, even if you are not thirsty.
• Take breaks in the shade.
• New workers and people back from time off need time to adjust to heat.
• Know the signs: dizziness, headache, nausea, confusion, heavy sweating or no sweating.
• Heat stroke is an emergency. Call 911 and cool the person right away.

Ask the crew

• Where is the water and shade today?
• Who is new or just back and needs to ease in?