Contact: Robin Tutor
Phone: 252-744-1045
Email: TutorR@ecu.edu
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Safeguarding against the summer sun and heat stress
GREENVILLE, N.C. --- Monday, June 21, 2010 is the official first day of summer. Along with
warm weather and sunny skies associated with the summer season come several health and
safety concerns. Workers who find themselves outdoors, such as fishermen, forestry workers and
farmers are at risk of heat related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. However,
regardless of the nature of the work, simple precautions can be taken to avoid such threats.
High temperature and humidity are among the biggest factors to consider in heat stress. Direct
sun exposure, limited air circulation, physical exertion and poor physical conditions all
contribute to heat stress, exhaustion and the more severe heat stroke.
To prevent heat stress and injury, take proper precautions. Protect your eyes by wearing
sunglasses and wear long pants and long sleeves; wear lightweight, light colored, loose-fitting
clothing. Wear a large brimmed hat to protect the neck, ears and nose. Apply sun block with an
SPF label of at least 15, but SPF 30 is recommended and apply at least 20-30 minutes before sun
exposure. In addition, drink lots of water, about 1 cup every 15 minutes. Make sure you have
ample shade available to rest in during your breaks. Avoid alcohol, caffeinated drinks, or heavy
meals.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion include headaches, dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting and
weakness or moist skin. In addition, mood changes, irritability, upset stomach or vomiting are
also signs of heat exhaustion. Symptoms of a heat stroke include dry, hot skin with no sweating,
mental confusion and seizures or fits.
When responding to a heat-related illness, always call 911 or the local emergency number
immediately. While waiting for help to arrive, move the worker to a cool, shaded area and loosen
or remove any heavy clothing. Provide cool drinking water and fan or mist the person with cool
water.
-more-
In correlation with sun exposure, schedule annual appointments for a mole check with a
dermatologist. Ultraviolet radiation is the highest during the summer months and UV rays are the
main cause of skin cancer. Skin cancer is highly preventable when precautions are taken. Danger
signs in pigmented lesions on the skin include asymmetrical shape and border, varied colors and
shades, and diameter. Most melanomas are greater than 6 mm in diameter, they can be smaller.
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The North Carolina Agromedicine Institute was established in 1999 by the UNC Board of
Governors. The Institute is a formal partnership between East Carolina University, North
Carolina State University and North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. For
more information on heat stress or the Institute, contact Robin Tutor at 252-744-1045 or at
TutorR@ecu.edu.
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