We Are in for a Warm One

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Are you getting the heat advisories on your phones? I am! In reading what the experts are saying there is hope. Companies make vests, bandanas, UV protective hoods, cooling hat inserts, and neck coolers. I thought that eating spicy foods would be counter-intuitive but there is evidence that the more spicy food you eat the more you will sweat from your head. This is the main heat regulator for the body. After the initial flush of heat, it actually cools your body down. Last summer as many as 61,000 people died in Europe from extreme heat. Many people perish early in the season because they aren't used to the heat and don't have time to acclimate their bodies. Extreme heat can be an invisible and silent killer often not seen until the mortality statistics come out months too late. At the Royal Netherlands Meteorologist Institute Dr. Vikki Thompson says that extreme heat can contribute to poorer mental health, car crashes, and drowings. She also says: "Heat waves are one of the most deadly natural hazards." Here are a few ways to keep cooler during extreme heat: * Workers out in the heat need to take extra breaks, wear hats and change clothes mid-shift. * We need to be aware of neighbors and relatives that are vulnerable and check on them regularly. * Paint buildings white and have shade areas established. * Try to do outdoor chores in the cooler hours of the day and stay hydrated. * Keep an eye on those with heart ailments. * Use the highest sunscreen you can find and reply it every few hours. How's the weather where you are? It is 94F here in Boise.