Getting too much sun is never good. Getting heat stroke is downright dangerous so it’s important to learn how to prevent heat stroke before it happens. Finding a little shade can make the difference between enjoying a great summer day and spending that day in your local ER.

The inclination on a very hot day, is to enjoy it until the sun goes down. It’s important however, to take a break throughout the day, grab a drink, and find some shade. You might find in your backyard lots of activities to enjoy, but your outdoor space should include a safe place to relax and take it easy. During the dead heat of the summer months, an umbrella just isn’t going to help much. A retractable awning or adding screening will go a long way in reducing the temperature of your deck. An awning will ultimately reduce the temperature of you and your loved ones. An awning will also reduce the temperature of your deck or patio by as much as 20 degrees. The great coverage that an awning will be provide, will keep you outside longer. A good rule of thumb is to take a beverage break for fifteen minutes every hour. Sitting under your shade structure for a few minutes with a cold non-alcoholic drink will go a long way in keeping heat stroke away.

When learning how to prevent heat stroke from a medical standpoint, it’s having a core temperature of 105 °F. In order for your body to reach this level of heat illness, precautions have been ignored and likely, these several warning signs.

Preceding symptoms of heat stroke include:

• Severe Headache
• Nausea and or Vomiting
• Dizziness and/or Fainting
• Lack of Sweating
• Fatigue
• Seizures
• Confusion
• Hot Skin

Any one of these symptoms could be a sign of danger but generally, it is when two or more are experienced, that heat stroke might be present. Simply staying hydrated and out of the sun for a time can have you avoiding this dangerous heat illness and with heat stroke at bay, your backyard will continue to be enjoyed. Without the proper coverage and with too much exposure to the sun, everyone is susceptible to heat stroke. Like many illnesses though, the very young and the very old are most at danger.

If you’ve ever had heat stroke, you know it is not pleasant and the remedy isn’t either. What should you do if you or a loved one appears to be suffering from heat stroke? First and foremost, call 911. While waiting for emergency services to arrive, remove any unnecessary clothing from the person and move them to an air conditioned room or at least into a shaded area. If you give them water, have them take small controlled sips. Too much water may cause vomiting or cramps. If the person’s temperature is 101 or higher, apply ice packs to the groin, armpits, back and neck. Also, putting the person in a cold bath may reduce their core temperature but always ask the 911 operator first before taking such measures.

Just remember that during the summer months, enjoy the heat, but be safe. If you enjoy sitting outside on your deck or porch or what not you can reduce the temperature of your deck with an awning. If you think that adding an awning to your house then contact us today and you’ll be sitting outside on your deck/porch with shade in no time.