You’ve waited for months to work in your garden. Now you can finally dig into the dirt and watch the fruits of your labor come to life. Just don’t let the heat endanger your health as you indulge your green thumb. Heat stroke is always a concern when temperatures soar, and Jobe’s has some advice for avoiding it, including putting up Sun Screen fabric.
Signs of Heat Stroke
Heat stroke occurs when the body can no longer cool its core properly and the temperature rises to 104 degrees Fahrenheit. It happens when you’re exposed to heat for long periods of time; dehydration is usually a factor. Watch for these symptoms of heat stroke, also known as sunstroke:
- Confusion
- Rapid heartbeat
- Nausea and dizziness or light-headedness
- Headaches
- Heat cramps
- Muscle weakness
- Lack of sweat
- Hot, dry, red skin
- Fast, shallow breathing
- Unconsciousness
- Seizures
If you or someone else experience any of these symptoms, get medical help immediately. Loosen clothing, rest in a semi-sitting position, and cool the head and body with cold water.
Heat Stroke Dangers
Sunstroke is a serious or even fatal condition. It often follows a series of other heat-induced ailments, including heat cramps and heat exhaustion. Always pay attention to any unusual sensations after heat exposure; cool off in the shade or indoors and drink plenty of water. Seek medical help if symptoms continue. Heat stroke can cause long-term or permanent brain or organ damage and even death.
How to Prevent Heat Stroke
You don’t have to give up gardening on those hot summer days. A little preparation and some smart work habits will keep sunstroke from ruining your warm weather fun. Try these tips for staying safe outdoors this summer:
- Work at a slower pace
- Avoid the outdoors from 10 am to 4 pm
- Avoid caffeinated, sugary, and alcoholic drinks
- Drink plenty of cool – not overly cold – water
- Temporarily shade your garden area with a Sun Screen fabric
- Wear a brimmed hat and loose clothes made from natural fabrics
Garden Safely This Summer with Jobe’s
It’s easy to overlook the dangers of the sun when you’re busy at work in your garden, but no one is immune from the problem of heat stroke. In fact, heat stroke strikes people of all ages and fitness levels. From properly hydrating to staying cool beneath Sun Screen fabric, protect yourself as you garden this summer with these tips from Jobe’s.