Summer moving season is in full swing, but so is a severe heat wave. In fact, temperatures along the west coast this weekend are expected to extend well above the 100 degree mark in many places. Statistics show that most areas are experiencing temperatures between five and 15 degrees above the local average for this time of year. This puts those working outdoors or doing any heavy lifting in a dangerous position, including your movers.
With such extreme weather conditions, movers risk heat related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. It is important to recognize some of the signs of such illnesses to better protect those assisting you with your move. Some of the visible signs of heat stroke include:
- Red and dry skin – a person experiencing a heat stroke will feel and look flushed due to the extremely high temperature of their body, but the body will be unable to release the excess heat through sweat
- A rapid pulse and heavy breathing
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Confusion
- Unconsciousness
A heat stroke can lead to severe health consequences, but luckily there are some simple tips to help prevent it, even in this weekend’s scorcher.
- Drink PLENTY of water. It’s really important to drink plenty of fluids to keep the body nourished. Those working outdoors should try to drink between two and four large glasses of water each hour to stay hydrated. Movers should try and keep a couple of sports beverages on hand as well to help replenish some of the body’s minerals.
- Our movers at McCarthy Transfer try to go out already prepared with coolers filled with ice cold waters and sports drinks. They know that if it’s 100 degrees outside, it’ll be about 115 degrees in the truck, and that those drinks will be more than necessary. As the temperatures have continued to rise this summer, the coolers have gone from small lunch coolers to much larger 48 qt. coolers.
- Customers have been really accommodating this season, offering drinks to your movers, but sometimes the customers are the ones who need help staying hydrated! With overstocked coolers, we’re happy to offer the same favor.
- Apply sunscreen liberally. Sunscreen may not help keep anybody cool, but it’s a necessity in preventing heat stroke. Sunburn affects the body’s ability to cool itself so SPF 15 or above will be a life saver.
- AC is a life saver. Air conditioning is really the best tool for preventing any heat related illness. If you can, give your movers a break every now and then in an air conditioned location. If one isn’t available, have them take rests in a shady location to escape the sun. High heat fatigues even the healthiest of people, so these breaks are extremely important.
- Movers should be careful when taking breaks in cranked up air conditioned rooms though. The constant change in temperature from extremely hot to extremely cold can cause severe headaches and decrease productivity. But taking a few breaks is a huge relief and we appreciate our customers’ patience with us on days where the heat is just too much.
- Give yourself time to adjust, too. If you are moving from an area where extreme heat isn’t the norm, and now you are in the middle of a heat wave, it’s really important that you take things slow yourself. Your body needs to adjust to this change in a timely manner. Stay cool, drink a lot of fluids, and don’t attempt too much at one time. Take your time settling in and slowly work up your activity level.
We know how important it is that your move goes as smooth and seamless as possible, and we strive to give the best possible service in all areas. With the severe weather forecast this upcoming weekend, these four tips are just a few ways to help us, help you.
