FALLON PAIUTE-SHOSHONE TRIBE Health Services |
Sun and Heat Exposure
Overexposure to the sun can damage the skin and could cause skin cancer, heat stroke, heat exhaustion; heat cramps and heat rash are possible when you become overexerted in the heat. Put your health first in order to enjoy the summer.
Here are a few safety tips:
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat to keep your head and face cool. This will also provide added protection from damaging sun exposure. Baseball caps provide little protection except to the face. A hat should protect the neck, face and ears.
- Wear a long-sleeved shirt at all times. It should be light colored and loose fitting except when working around machinery.
- Carry a source of water with you. Take drinks frequently—every 15 minutes.
- Take frequent breaks in the shade or in a cool environment during the hottest times of the day.
- Adjust gradually to working in the heat over a period of 10-20 days.
- Someone suffering from heat exhaustion or heat stroke should be moved to a cool environment, offered sips of water, if conscious, and provided with attention from emergency medical personnel
Call 9-1-1.
- Wear sunscreen that has an SPF of at least 15. Make sure children are also adequately protected.
- Keep in mind these questions before going outside:
- Is fresh water available?
- Is sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 on hand?
- Is protective clothing available and being worn?
CALL 9-1-1 if you begin not to feel well…