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The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) encourages all people in New Mexico to avoid heat-related illness by staying in cool indoor places and hydrating, NMDOH said in a May 17 news release.
“Acclimatization, adequate hydration and avoidance of activities during extreme heat are the most effective measures to reduce the incidence of heat-related illnesses,” said acting NMDOH Secretary David R. Scrase, M.D., who is also secretary of the state Human Services Department. “People at highest risk of heat-related illness are the elderly, the very young and people with existing chronic diseases, but it can also just as easily affect anyone working or playing outdoors, if they are unprepared for the temperatures outside,” Scrase said.
It is important to know the signs and symptoms of heat-related illness because conditions can get serious, even deadly, very quickly if not recognized. Here is what to look for:
Employers should implement occupational health plans that allow employees to adapt behaviors to high temperatures such as slowing the pace of work during the heat of the day, provide water and provide shaded areas for resting.
Likewise, athletic coaches should take precautions to protect athletes, especially young athletes whose bodies are still developing, from getting heat-related illness. NMDOH urges New Mexicans to never leave children, pets or anyone in a parked car, even for a few minutes.
For helpful tips on how to stay safe and cool this summer, visit https://nmtracking.doh.nm.gov and click on “Newsroom.”