Staying Safe in Summer
Overview
With temperatures rising during summer, it is important that you take extra precautions and care.
See below for useful tips and practical resources to help you stay safe and comfortable while dashing.
Staying safe in summer tips
Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help you stay hydrated and cool. Make sure you carry an adequate supply of water with you.
Appropriate clothing: Wearing light-colored, breathable clothing can provide protection from the sun while allowing proper ventilation to keep you cool.
Take breaks: Consider taking short breaks in shaded areas to rest and cool down. Dashers are always free to choose how, when and where they dash. For more information about how to pause a dash in the app, visit here.
Check weather: Before you go outside, check the weather forecast in your area. Please always be sure to follow any advice from local authorities.
Check your car: Before you start driving, check your car is working including the AC. Having coolant at the ready may also help if the engine becomes overheated.
Know the signs of heat-related illness: Be familiar with the symptoms of heat-related illness such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion or heatstroke. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention has shared the following information:
Heat Cramps
What to look for: Muscle pain or spasms. Heavy sweating.
What to do: Stop physical activity and move to a cool place. Drink water or a sports drink. Get medical help right away if cramps last longer than 1 hour.
Heat Exhaustion
What to look for: Heavy sweating. Cold, pale and clammy skin. Fast, weak pulse. Nausea or vomiting. Muscle cramps. Tiredness or weakness. Dizziness. Fainting.
What to do: Move to a cool place. Loosen clothes. Put cool, wet clothes on your body or take a cool bath. Sip watch. Get medical help right away if you are throwing up, the symptoms get worse or your symptoms last longer than 1 hour.
Heat Stroke
What to look for: High body temperature (103F or higher). Hot, red, dry or damp skin. Fast, strong pulse. Headache. Dizziness. Nausea. Confusion. Losing consciousness.
What to do: Call 911 immediately. Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Move the person to a cooler place. Help lower the person’s temperature with cool clothes or a cool bath. Do not give the person anything to drink.
