Prevent heat injury! Stay cool, hydrate, stay alert
Source: Ministry of Health and Welfare, National Health Agency website
Publishing unit: Community Health Team
Revision date: 2018/05/17
Publication date: 2018/05/17
URL path: https://www.hpa.gov.tw/Pages/Detail.aspx?nodeid=1405&pid=8681
As the season gradually moves into the hot summer pattern, according to the Central Weather Bureau's one‑week forecast, most regions will experience high‑temperature weather in the coming week, with maximum temperatures ranging from about 29 to 35 °C. Consequently, the risk of heat‑related injuries among the public will increase significantly, and anyone can suffer heat injury. People should avoid exposure to high temperatures. National Health Agency Director Wang Ying‑wei reminds us to remember the three key tips for preventing heat injury: “Stay cool, hydrate, stay alert.”
Three key tips to prevent heat injury
The National Health Agency advises the public to pay attention to the following when preventing heat injury:
1. Stay cool:
(a) Wear light, loose, breathable clothing.
(b) Regardless of duration, never leave young children alone in a closed, parked car.
(c) As much as possible stay in indoor areas that are cool, ventilated, or air‑conditioned; if your home lacks air conditioning, it is recommended to seek a public place with air conditioning during high temperatures.
2. Hydrate:
(a) Regardless of activity level, you should hydrate continuously, not waiting until you feel thirsty, and develop the habit of drinking at least 2,000 cc of plain water daily; however, if a medical order limits fluid intake, consult your physician about the appropriate amount during extreme heat.
(b) Eat more fruits and vegetables, as they contain high water content, abundant vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, which promote health.
(c) Avoid drinks containing alcohol or large amounts of sugar to prevent further loss of body water.
3. Stay alert:
(1) Outdoor workers, athletes, or workers in confined spaces should continuously monitor their own and nearby colleagues' physical condition, take appropriate rest, and stay hydrated.
(2) Infants, young children, and the elderly should avoid going out between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.; if they must go out, it is recommended to walk in shaded areas, apply sunscreen, and wear wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses.
(3) To prevent heat-related injuries among employees, employers should provide suitable working environments and related protective measures, promote heat injury prevention, adjust work assignments, and avoid workers spending more than six hours per day in high‑temperature areas. Employers should arrange relevant training so that employees understand the symptoms of heat injury, thereby strengthening preventive actions.
The National Health Agency reminds you that when you notice possible signs of heat injury—such as elevated body temperature, dry hot red skin, rapid heartbeat—severe cases may present an inability to sweat, headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and even confusion, cramps, or loss of consciousness. You must promptly leave the hot environment, try to lower body temperature (e.g., loosen clothing, wipe the body with water, fan yourself), provide cool water with a little salt or diluted electrolyte drinks, and seek medical attention as quickly as possible.
