Beating the Mississippi Heat This Summer

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By Cheryl Owens

Mississippi Spirit

If you’ve stepped outside lately, you already know — summer has arrived in Mississippi.

The temperatures are climbing, the humidity is settling in, and it seems like it only takes a few minutes outdoors before you’re looking for a cold drink and a shady spot. While summer brings plenty of fun, it also brings some challenges, especially when it comes to staying safe in the heat.

Around here, summer means children spending their days in the pool, families heading to the lake, folks tending gardens and yards, and before long, young athletes will be back on the football field preparing for another season.

As much as we enjoy summer, it’s important to remember that Mississippi heat is nothing to take lightly.

One of the biggest concerns this time of year is dehydration. It’s easy to get busy and forget to drink enough water, but our bodies need more fluids when temperatures rise. If you’re spending time outdoors, make water your best friend. Waiting until your thirsty often means you’re already getting dehydrated.

For parents, water safety should also be top of mind. Whether children are swimming in a backyard pool, at the lake or on vacation, they should always be supervised around water. It only takes a moment for an accident to happen.

With football practices and other outdoor sports getting underway, coaches, parents and athletes should pay close attention to the warning signs of heat-related illness. Dizziness, headaches, nausea and unusual fatigue can all signal that it’s time to get out of the heat and cool down.

The same goes for adults who work outdoors. Farmers, construction workers, utility crews and anyone spending long hours in the sun know how quickly the heat can wear you down. Taking breaks, finding shade when possible and staying hydrated can make a big difference.

Our older residents also need a little extra attention during the hottest days of summer. A quick phone call or visit to check on a neighbor can go a long way.

And while most of us know better, it never hurts to repeat an important reminder: never leave children or pets in a parked vehicle. Temperatures inside a car can rise to dangerous levels in just a matter of minutes.

Summer is one of my favorite times of the year. There’s something special about backyard cookouts, family vacations, evenings spent on the porch and children making memories they’ll talk about for years to come.

As we enjoy everything summer has to offer, let’s remember to take care of ourselves and each other. Drink plenty of water, keep an eye on family and neighbors, and don’t underestimate the Mississippi heat.

Here’s hoping everyone has a safe, healthy and happy summer.