NEW LONDON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — With hot weather in the forecast this Fourth of July, safety is top of mind for those at ThedaCare.
Dr. Nathan Larsen provided some advice for people looking to get outside and enjoy the weather. Some of his advice including staying hydrated by drinking water — especially if you plan to drink alcohol.
He also noted to check the weather before heading outside and being prepared for the hot weather.
“The heat index is what you should be looking at,” he said. “Heat index is how hot your body senses that the temperature is outside. If the humidity is high you’re going to feel hotter because the air can’t evaporate off of you, the sweat can’t evaporate off your body to cool you down.”
Brown County Public Health issued these safety tips for the holiday weekend:
Monitor the air quality
Be air aware this 4th of July! Air quality conditions may change rapidly over the next few days. It is important to pay close attention to the air quality in your area and take action, especially if you don’t feel well. You can check www.airnow.gov for real time updates where you live or where you’re traveling to.
West Nile Virus and mosquito bite prevention
Avoid mosquito bites by applying an insect repellent with DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535 to exposed skin and clothing. Consider rescheduling outdoor activities that occur during evening or early morning hours, when mosquitoes that spread the West Nile virus are most active. Wear long-sleeves, long pants, and socks when outdoors to keep mosquitoes away from your skin. Learn more about the West Nile Virus.
Food Safety
Whether you’re barbecuing, grilling, cooking, or eating outdoors it’s important to always keep food safety in mind. Bacteria in food multiply faster at temperatures between 40F and 140F, so the summer heat can pose a problem. Here are some easy things you can do to help keep everyone at your table safe from foodborne illness.
Heat Safety
Take steps to stay cool in the heat if you plan on being outdoors. Drink plenty of water on hot days. Do regular check-ins with loved ones, especially young children, and older adults. Avoid the hottest part of the day. If you want to be outside, stick to the cooler morning and evening hours. Stay informed about your local weather forecasts so you can plan outdoor activities safely. Pay attention to extreme heat alerts. More heat safety guidance can be found here.
Keep you, your loved ones, and your pets safe! Don’t swim if there is a red sign that says “Beach Closed” or where water is discolored, has scum, foam, or dead fish. Wash off with clean water after swimming, and rinse off pets with clean water if they swim in discolored or scummy water. Also never drink or swallow the water from a lake or a pool. Learn more here.
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