Who should especially be protected from heat?

1. The elderly, disabled and children under 5 years of age.
2. People with chronic diseases (hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, obesity, alcoholism).
3. People who take any medication regularly.
4. People who do strenuous physical work or sports outdoors when temperatures are high.
5. If you have any doubts, consult health professionals.

What are the effects of excess heat?

• Cramps: due to loss of salts.
• Exhaustion: malaise, headache, nausea, vomiting, intense thirst.
• Dehydration: decay and a feeling of prostration.
• Heat stroke: nausea, vomiting, headache, hot and reddened skin, increased body temperature above 40º, unsteadiness when walking, dizziness, possibly having seizures and coma.

How to protect yourself from the heat?

• Avoid leaving the house during the central hours of the day (between 12 noon and 6 pm).
• Drink more fluids, without waiting to feel thirsty. Especially water and slightly cold fruit juices.
• Avoid large meals, eat vegetables and fruits. Eat less and more times a day. Do not eat hot foods or abuse alcoholic beverages.
• Reduce physical activity.
• Take frequent breaks in the shade.
• Wear light-colored, light and loose-fitting clothing made of natural fabrics, a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
• Stay in ventilated or conditioned spaces.
• When you are in the house, use the coolest rooms.
• During the day, lower the blinds and close the windows; open them at night to ventilate.
• Keep food in the refrigerator and always observe hygienic storage measures.
• When parking the car, do not leave children or the elderly inside with the windows closed.
• Help people who may be at higher risk due to the effects of heat.

What to do when faced with a person with heat stroke?

• Call health emergencies at 112.
• Place the sick person in a shady place.
• Remove clothes for airflow.
• If conscious, position the person’s head slightly elevated and offer plenty of water.
• Cool the person with cold water or ice, especially the face and armpits. Do not place the person in the bathtub to cool him/her down.
• If the person is unconscious, place him/her on his/her side, with his/her legs bent.
• Never give liquids to an unconscious person.