Happy Pre-Summer, Everyone! Summer is just around the corner (Summer Solstice is June 21, 2025) and our time for vacations and fun in the sun. It’s also a time when temperatures can reach triple digits. For anyone working during the summer months, increased temperatures (both indoor and outdoor) put them at risk of heat illness if precautions are not taken.
Here are five (5) ways to combat heat illness:
- Drink plenty of water. Drink a quart of water over an hour period during the work shift. Do not wait until you get thirsty. Do not drink alcohol, coffee, or soft drinks.
- Wear lightweight/loose-fitting clothing. Also, include a bandana, UV-absorbent sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat or cap, if necessary. Use of personal protective equipment (e.g., air purifying respirators, heavy work suits) may increase your susceptibility to heat illness.
- Take frequent breaks. Taking frequent breaks in the cool shade (outdoor) or air-conditioned area (indoor) allows the body to recover after working in the heat.
- Notify your supervisor of any personal risk factors (i.e., health, weight, age) that make you more susceptible to heat-related illnesses.
- Be mindful of medication side effects. Ask your health care provider or pharmacist if there are any adverse effects to being in the sun/heat while on prescription medication.
Everyone is highly encouraged to complete EH&S’ Heat Illness Prevention Training on Trojan Learn which highlights Heat Illness Awareness and outlines the additional measures supervisors and employees need to take when temperatures rise above 80 degrees, both indoor and outdoor.
Visit the Heat Illness Prevention page for resources and tips to avoid heat illness. In addition, find out more about heat illness prevention by reviewing the following resources: