Summer’s here, the heat is on and the danger is real. Heat-related illnesses affect thousands of people each year and outdoor workers are especially at risk.

When working in the heat, our bodies sweat to cool off. But if the humidity is high, your fluid and electrolyte levels are low or you have other health issues, your body temperature can rise to dangerous levels.

You may begin to feel confused, dizzy, sick or weak—these are some of the signs of heat exhaustion or even heat stroke. Take time to train your entire team on the warning signs of heat-related illness and guidelines for heat safety, because it can save lives.

We asked Ewing customers for their tips on staying safe and cool when working outdoors in the heat. Here's what they had to say:

Start Your Day Off Right 

“Don’t get sloshed the night before work ‘cause its gonna make for a bad day in the heat.” – Jason V.

Alcohol is dehydrating, so avoid it or take it easy, and drink plenty of water to rehydrate.

“Do the heaviest manual labor in the morning when temps are cool, and hydrate with cold water often.” – Damon A.

 

Hats, long sleeves and pants provide vital skin protection from the summer sun.

 

Long-sleeve shirts and pants help protect and keep your skin cool. Make sure to wear fabrics that breath and release heat from your body.

Hydrate the Safe Way

“Don't wait 'til you’re thirsty to drink.” – Jim C.

“I drink water every 15 minutes, whether I’m thirsty or not.” – @beniplaysdrums

Water is key. You can sweat out up to six cups of water per hour when working in very hot conditions!

 “Always dilute Gatorade/Powerade drinks with water or at least switch back and forth. Drinking only those types of drinks will do more harm than good.” – Russel O.

“Stay hydrated and avoid caffeine and sugary drinks.” – Dan K.

Instead of relying on sugary sports drinks or energy drinks, you can replenish your electrolyte levels with normal meals and snacks. 

Keep a Cool Head 

 

Keep a cool head. This guy knows.

 

“Keep your neck and head as cool as possible. A cold cloth can be used to rinse the front of your face then apply to neck/head area. Your neck is the core.” – Jackie Y.

“Always have a rag that you can dip in ice water to keep around your neck.” – Simon H.

“Wear a sunhat or a moisture wicking baseball cap that you can run through the sprinklers. It keeps your head cool.” – Janet H.

 

From @MorganH2O

 

 

From @irriaudi

 

Add It All Together

“Wear protective clothing, take a lot of short breaks in the shade, water, electrolytes, something like sunflower seeds to help replace lost salt, cooling rags, drive the gator through the rotors, haha.” – Daniel C.

Follow these tips from your peers to stay safe and cool this summer!