Six Heat Survival Safety Tips

The National Weather Service advices to stay inside as much as possible and keep hydrated. Heat, it claims, is the number one cause of weather related deaths each year.

The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services has issued an air-quality warning due to high temperatures and humidity in the area. Winds are expected to carry unhealthy levels of air pollution to Southeast New Hampshire. The department urges sensitive individuals to limit their exposure to the heat and limiting heavy exertion.

Here are a few tips to take advantage of in Bedford today to ensure you enjoy future New England summers.

1. No Air Conditioner, no problem. The y is open for use as an official town cooling center. Other cooling centers in the area include:

• Merrimack Seniors Center  (424-2100)
  
• Manchester City Library  (624-6550)
• Manchester William B. Cashin Senior Activity Center

Dial 211 for more information on cooling centers and staying safe in as the local heat index eclipses 100 degrees.

2. Drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated is obvious, but safety officials warn alcohol and caffeine can heighten the affects of extreme heat. It may not be a bad idea to put down that ice cold beer or iced coffee in favor of a cool glass or bottle of water today.

3. If you're feeling dizzy or faint. Contact the IMMEDIATELY. Fire fighters and EMTs are trained to treat heat-related ailments such as exaustion, extreme sun burn and heat stroke.

4. Limit outdoor exposure. Find things to do inside instead. Yes it's summer and sunny, but instead of playing outdoors, consider heading to the library to read a good book, or stop by for a story, craft and  Or go see a movie. Find out what's playing at Cinemagic in Merrimack.

5. Wear loose fitting clothes that are light in color. Dark clothes absorb the sunlight while light clothes reflect it. If you have to be outside, make sure you are wearing sunscreen and a hat to protect your face. A sunburn makes it very difficult for the body to cool itself down.

6. Be neighborly. If you have elderly or ill neighbors, swing by the house and check on them. The heat can affect the elderly or ill much faster than someone who is young and healthy. Swing by and make sure all is well and use the time to catch up if it's been a while. No one can blame you for wanting to stay indoors for a few extra minutes.