Excessive Heat
Hanover is known for its bitterly cold and exceptionally snowy winters, but the summer brings heat and humidity that most would not associate with northern New England. Temperatures well over 80° and humidity up to 100% are not uncommon during the summer months. Students living on campus will likely live in residence halls without air conditioning. Employees working outdoors or in older buildings will meet the same challenges as students in residence halls. It is important that you take steps to stay safe.
Prevention
Stay Cool
- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothes appropriate for warmer temperatures.
- Stay in an air-conditioned place as much as possible.
- Limit your outdoor activity to cooler morning and evening hours; if outdoors, rest often and in shaded areas.
- Pace Yourself: Minimize outdoor exercise during the heat; If outdoor exercise is unavoidable, begin exercise regimen by acclimating to the heat and build from there. If exerted, stop activity and rest in a shaded area
- Use SPF 15 or higher sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside & use wide-brimmed hats/sunglasses to prevent sunburns which decrease ability body’s ability to cool off,
- Do not leave children or pets in the car, even if the windows are cracked open. Check to verify nobody is left behind inside the car.
- Avoid hot and heavy meals since they contribute to body heat.
Stay Hydrated
- Increase overall fluid consumption; Don’t wait till you’re thirsty to drink water.
- Consult with your doctor if they limit liquid consumption or prescribed a water pill.
- Stay away from high sugar and/or alcoholic beverages since they increase bodily fluid loss.
- Provide plenty of fresh water to pets.
- Replace salt & minerals in the body by drinking sports drinks.
- Consult with your doctor if you are on a low-salt diet, have diabetes, high blood pressure, or other chronic conditions.
Stay Educated
- Check the local news for extreme heat alerts, safety tips, and cooling center locations.
- Learn the symptoms of heat-related illnesses including heat stroke, heat exhaustion, and heat cramps.
- Monitor high risk population around you. Recommended to visit at risk adults at least twice/day & frequently check infants/young children The at-risk population includes:
- Infants and young children
- People 65 years of age or older
- People who are overweight
- People who overexert during work or exercise
- People who are physically ill, especially with heart disease or high blood pressure, or who take certain medications, such as for depression, insomnia, or poor circulation