Dog Days of Summer

The month of August is always referred to as the Dog Days of Summer which means hot temperatures with high humidity. Houseboating Excursions in the Mississippi River Valley is reminding everyone of the dangers of Heat Illnesses and Heat Stress Disorders. When out on the river it is easy to overlook these dangers when having a good time.
Statistics show that more than 300 people in the United States alone die from Heat Illnesses every year. These illnesses cause more deaths than hurricanes, tornados, lightning, and floods combined. The elderly and young children are at the highest risk. Heat Illnesses occur when the body is unable to cool itself properly. Sweating is the body's normal way of cooling itself, but when the humidity is too high the sweat is unable to evaporate, preventing the body from releasing the heat. Other conditions leading to high risk of a heat illness are obesity, fever, dehydration, heart disease, sunburn, drug use and alcohol consumption. Heat stroke may occur when the body is unable to regulate its temperature. Body temperature may rise to 106 degrees within just 10 minutes. The result of heat stroke can leave disabilities or even death. Heat Exhaustion is a milder illness that can occur over several days of high heat exposure and an unbalance of hydrating liquids. If left untreated, it could lead to stroke.
Warning Signs to look for when it comes to Heat Illnesses are: extreme body temperature increase to above 103 degress; red, hot or dry skin and no sweating, a throbbing headache, unconsciousness, dizziness, nausea, and confusion. For Heat Exhaustion look for heavy sweating, muscle cramps, fainting and a headache.
A few ways to managing extreme heat conditions would be to as Koal and George are doing and cool off with a swim in the river. Go to a nearby public swimming pool or take cool baths or showers. Drink plenty of WATER and stay away from drinks that have caffeine, sugar, or alcohol. Try to avoid drinking very cold drinks because they may create stomach cramps. If possible stay indoors of a building that has air conditioning, even though electric fans are good, they won't prevent a heat illness.
Come follow Houseboating Excursions in the Mississippi River Valley as we continue to provide information and explore more cruise stops.