How To Prevent Heat-Related Injuries In Albuquerque This August
August 21, 2024 | Personal Injury
Each year, extreme heat is responsible for the deaths of over 1,200 people in the United States. It may not be anywhere close to the number of fatalities from car accidents, but heat-related illnesses and deaths are entirely preventable.
With 310 days of sunshine each year, along with its mild winters and low humidity, Albuquerque enjoys an ideal climate almost year-round. Even summer temps rarely break triple digits in this desert region.
However, there are times when extreme heat strikes, particularly in late summer. Each year, over 60,000 people in the metro area visit emergency rooms due to heat-related illnesses. How can you prevent heat-related injuries when temperatures soar in August?
Service Your HVAC and Create a Backup Plan
Few homes in Albuquerque have basements that would offer a cool respite during the summer months, but with typically mild weather, many homes also lack air conditioning. If your home has a central HVAC system, you’ll want to have it serviced at least annually to ensure it will supply the cool air you need.
If you don’t have central air or it’s too expensive to run in extreme heat situations, you still have options. Set up your home for passive cooling with insulated window coverings to keep the heat at bay.
If possible, head to your local indoor mall or public library during the hottest hours of the day to enjoy AC for free, or visit one of the city’s seven public pools and additional splash pads. You can also take advantage of heat resources like assistance with electric bills for low to moderate-income qualified residents.
Never Leave Kids Or Pets In Hot Cars
When you leave your car parked in the hot sun, even on a seemingly mild summer day, the interior can reach surprisingly high temperatures. Studies have shown that even in comfortable 80-degree weather, the interior of your car can reach 108 degrees in just 20 minutes, with interior temperatures reaching over 120 degrees within an hour.
Cars with dark paint and upholstery can get much hotter. Even with the windows cracked, this is a dangerous situation for anyone inside, but it is particularly hazardous to pets or kids who cannot get themselves out of the car unassisted. Heat-related child injuries and illnesses are easily preventable when you refrain from leaving kids in hot cars.
Be Careful When You Work Outdoors
Outdoor jobs are particularly dangerous in extreme heat. If you have an outdoor job, see if your employers can schedule work before or after peak temperatures hit. If you must work outdoors during the day, take steps to stay as cool and protected as possible.
Wear protective clothing, including lightweight layers that offer UV protection, and apply sunscreen throughout the day on any exposed skin. Drink plenty of water and replenish electrolytes.
You should also know the signs of heat-related illnesses like heat stroke and heat exhaustion, which can be life-threatening. Pay attention to your own condition and create a buddy system for coworkers to keep an eye on each other. Seek immediate medical attention if you or another worker has symptoms of heat-related illness, and make sure to document the incident for workers’ compensation claims.
Prepare for the Worst
Extreme weather conditions are becoming more prevalent across the globe, and Albuquerque residents must be prepared to deal with extreme heat when it strikes. With a plan in place for shelter and scheduling activities, knowledge of how to avoid heat-related health issues, and a commitment to protecting loved ones, you can beat the heat and transition to cooler temperatures later in the year.
Contact the New Mexico Personal Injury Lawyers at Runion Personal Injury Lawyers Today
If you were injured in an accident in Albuquerque, NM, and need legal help, contact our Albuquerque personal injury attorneys at Runion Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free case review today.
Runion Personal Injury Lawyers
400 Gold Avenue SW, Suite 650
Albuquerque, NM 87102
(505) 594-3621