Staying safe during exercise in the heat
BECKLEY, WV (WVNS) – Sunny days can be a great time to work up a sweat and burn some calories. But before lacing up your shoes to head out for a run, there are a few precautions you might want to keep in mind.
Whether you are hitting the trail, clocking your daily miles, or just walking the dog, there is a lot to consider before stepping out into the summer heat.
According to the National Environmental Education Foundation, sunscreen, hydration, and shade are key in avoiding issues like heat stroke, heat exhaustion, and sunburn. But you may be surprised to learn heat safety starts before you even step out the door.
'Watch what you're eating. A heavy meal like if you go to fast food and eat a big burger and fries, it's going to raise your body temperature,' said Sharon Dempsey Memorial Pool Head Lifeguard, Evan Laraba. 'If you eat lighter it's going to help you not get as slothy and not be as affected by the heat.'
Fireworks safety tips
Local officer Adam Justice is also no stranger being active in the heat. As the Community Services Officer for Beckley Police Department, Justice regularly traverses the city by bike and on foot to engage area residents. He told 59news that one way to beat the heat is to work smarter not harder and simply wait out the sun.
'When it's heat like this, the easiest thing to do if you can, if your schedule will allow, to wait until the evening time when the sun may be going down, when it's more shaded,' he said.
Whatever your day looks like, it's always important to be mindful of risks tied to overexposure to the heat and to UV rays, especially if you plan on being physically active outdoors.
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