It’s summertime and not only is the Citrus County real estate housing market hot, but so are the temperatures. The humidity and Citrus County heat nearly reached record highs. Fortunately, we live on the Nature Coast and the sea breezes help to cool the temperature at night. But what happens during the day can be dangerous.
I worked as an EMT/Paramedic for 30 years and have treated numerous victims of heat related illnesses. This month, I am offering some tips to stay safe in the heat.
When Working Outside in Citrus County Heat
- Try to work in the early mornings or evenings before the heat of the day.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. This will keep your body from getting dehydrated. Drinking water is good, but drinking Gatorade, or another drink with electrolytes is important.
- Avoid drinking beverages that contain caffeine and also, avoid alcohol.
- Wear protective clothing. To protect yourself against the harsh rays, choose lightweight, light colored, loose clothing. Also, be sure to change your clothes if they become saturated with sweat.
- Pace yourself. Although you want to hurry and get things done when it’s hot, know your limits. This allows you to work safely.
- Schedule frequent breaks when working outdoors in the Citrus County heat. Find an area in the shade where you can rest and stay hydrated. If air conditioning is available, a ten-minute break in an air-conditioned room will help bring your body temperature down.
- Use a damp rag to wipe down your face. Wet it and put it around your neck to cool down.
- Avoid getting a sunburn by consistently applying sunscreen and wear a hat.
- Eat smaller meals. Fruits high in fiber and natural juices will help to replace fluids that get lost through sweating. Avoid high protein foods because these will sit in your stomach and make you very uncomfortable.
When Working Indoors
If you work in an an area that does not have air conditioning, be sure to stay hydrated and take frequent breaks. Additionally, avoid caffeine and alcohol, eat smaller meals and wear light colored clothing.
In Your Home in Citrus County
- Make sure you run the air conditioner. Set the air conditioner up during the day when you are not at home and turn it back home when you are. When you do this, it will keep your energy costs down. On the other hand, if you don’t have air conditioning, run fans.
- Do your laundry early in the morning or in the evening when electric use is less.
- Close the windows during the heat of the day and open the windows in the evening and early morning. Also, close the curtains or blinds to keep the heat out.
- Check on the elderly and small children. Older people and children have a difficult time managing their body temperature. A quick knock on the door of an elderly neighbor to see if they are alright can help prevent a tragedy.
- Make sure to keep your pets inside your home. Always have water readily available for pets.
Citrus County, It’s Hot Out There- Click Here for Part 2
About the Author:
Ruth Edwards, serves as the 2019 President of the Realtors® Association of Citrus County. Additionally, she is an active Realtor® with Coldwell Banker Next Generation Realty. Contact Ruth for assistance in buying Citrus County real estate. Either by phone at (352) 586-0115 or by email: ruthedwardsrealtor@outlook.com.
Make the Move to Citrus County, Florida
Check out the latest Citrus County real estate for sale here.
When you’re ready to build, contact the trusted professionals of Edward Russell Johnston, Inc. Over 43 years of building beautiful homes in Sugarmill Woods and across the Nature Coast. Call (352) 795-2200. If you’re looking for a new construction Sugarmill Woods home, ask about the Alura IV, just built and move-in ready located in Cypress Village.
