07/31/2025
☀️ Beat the Heat: Stay Hydrated, Stay Safe! 🌡️
As temperatures climb, we want everyone in our community to stay safe and cool. Please remember these simple—but essential—tips during this heat wave:
🧃 Stay Hydrated:
Sip water steadily throughout the day—even before feeling thirsty—especially if you’re outside or being active. Aim for about 8 ounces every 15–20 minutes when working or exercising in the heat, but do not exceed about 48 ounces per hour . Be mindful if you’re older, caring for children, or have medical conditions—drink even more and watch for dehydration symptoms like dark urine, dizziness, or fatigue.
🥥 Smart Fluid Choices:
Water is the best. Other options include sports drinks (in moderation), coconut water, or fruit and veggie juices to help replenish electrolytes—especially when you’re sweating heavily—but avoid alcohol, caffeine, energy drinks, and sugary sodas .
👕 Keep Cool:
Stay indoors in air‑conditioned spaces or visit public cooling centers if needed. At home, keep blinds drawn and avoid using stoves or ovens during peak heat. Wear light-colored, loose clothing, and use cool compresses, damp towels, or take cool showers to lower your body temperature.
⏰ Avoid Peak Heat Hours:
Try to limit outdoor activity between 12 PM–4 PM. When you must be outside, take frequent breaks in shade or cool spots, wear a hat and sunscreen, and rest often .
❤️ Look Out for Others:
Check on family, neighbors, and pets—especially seniors, little ones, and those with chronic health conditions. Know the warning signs of heat-related illness—dizziness, confusion, lack of sweating, nausea, or rapid heartbeat—and seek medical help if symptoms worsen or don’t improve within 30 minutes of cooling rest.
🥗 Eat Smart, Stay Energized:
Choose light, hydrating foods like watermelon, cucumbers, salads, oranges, and berries. These help keep you energized and hydrated without adding heat stress to your body.
At Atmore Community Hospital, your health matters most. If you’re experiencing symptoms of heat exhaustion or dehydration—or if you just need to cool down—please don’t hesitate to contact us or visit our emergency department. We’re here to help.
Stay cool, stay hydrated, and take care of yourself and each other!
