As Mississippians continue to weather the summer blaze, the state health department is offering tips to keep folks safe amid the brutal conditions.
The Mississippi State Department of Health is launching a new campaign called “Summer Survival” which will provide tips for everything from heat and food safety to mosquitoes and sunscreen.
Some examples to ensure maximum protection from the elements include:
- Protect yourself from heat stroke by drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, and avoiding alcoholic and caffeinated drinks. Body temperature can rise to 106 degrees within 10 minutes during a heat stroke. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 1,220 people in the United States die from extreme heat annually.
- Avoid mosquito-borne illnesses by using a repellent such as DEET, covering your arms and legs when outside, staying away from mosquito-prone areas in the mornings and evenings, and removing sources of standing water around your home.
- Wear sunscreen rated SPF-15 or higher with UVA and UVB protection. Serious sunburns can double your lifetime risk of developing malignant melanoma. When in the sun, cover up with loose-fitting clothing and a wide-brim hat, and seek shade during midday hours.
- Stay safe around water
- Never swim alone
- Constantly watch children
- Learn CPR
- Avoid drinking alcohol
- Install a fence around pools
- Remove toys
- Keep foods chilled when outside to reduce foodborne illnesses. Do not let foods sit out for more than two hours or one hour if the temperature is higher than 90 degrees.
- Always check the back seat of vehicles. Never leave children or pets alone in the car. Temperatures can soar to 125 degrees in less than 15 minutes in a hot car.
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Check on family and friends frequently, especially seniors and vulnerable adults.
Each day in July will feature a summer health topic on the MSDH’s social media accounts, and the full guide is available here.
