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SAFETY AND HEALTH TIPS
First aid and CPR classes
The American Red Cross offers first aid and CPR classes on a regular basis. The first aid class costs $29 and takes about 6 1/2 hours to complete. The CPR class takes approximately 4 hours and costs $22. A combination class is $36 lasting 9 hours. For more information call 264-9481.
Avoid heat exhaustion and dehydration
Drink lots of water when the temperatures are high. The body uses water to keep itself cool so if you neglect to hydrate you will quickly overheat and could have some serious health complications as a result. The body can lose up to 1 quart of water per hour just walking in 100 degree heat. If you wait until you are thirsty to drink water you have waited too long. Make it a habit to carry a bottle of drinking water wherever you go. Also be sure to carry an extra jug of water in your car for emergency drinking purposes. Children at play easily forget to drink enough water, so be sure to monitor them carefully. Initial signs of dehydration are muscle cramps, mild fatigue and headaches. Indication of heat exhaustion is rapid and weak pulse, profuse sweating and muscle spasms. Heat stroke victims typically exhibit symptoms of hot dry skin with no perspiration and a fast strong pulse. Heat stroke is a medical emergency and you should call rescue personnel immediately. If you have signs of a heat related illness: Move into a cool, shaded area. Loosen or remove clothing, sponge forehead, arms and legs. Be sure to get follow-up medical care.
DO NOT LEAVE CHILDREN OR PETS IN THE CAR
LIGHTNING SAFETY TIPS
Strangely enough more people die in Arizona from lightning than heat related hazards.
During a lightning storm:
It is safest to stay indoors
Stay away from windows, open doors, fireplaces, stoves, metal pipes, sinks and appliances.
Unplug computers and TVs, stay off of the phone, do not use electrical appliances and do not take a bath or shower.
Outdoors, stay away from metal fences, telephone poles or power lines or any other metal object.
Do not use metal objects like baseball bats, golf clubs, or fishing poles.
Stay out of lakes, swimming pools or any other body of water.
If traveling you are safe inside of the car but do not lean on metal doors.
If you can't find a building or car, stay as low as possible, preferably in a ditch or canyon.
Avoid open areas, high places and tall trees standing alone. Better to crouch in an open field than being near a tall tree.
If you feel an electrical charge or your hair stands on end or your skin tingles drop to your knees immediately putting your hands on your knees. Never lie flat on the ground.
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