By Donna Motley,
Vice President of Claims

Determining what to write about this month was a no brainer – the subject: The weather! We just experienced a week of high temperatures with high humidity. While I have written about this topic in the past, after this past week, I feel it bears repeating.

It came upon us suddenly. We were not prepared. There was no chance to become acclimated. Becoming dehydrated or suffering from the heat is not covered by Workers’ Compensation. Keep an eye on your co-workers for signs – muscle cramping, a “heat” rash, headaches, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, confusion, irritability, fatigue, weakness, numbness or tingling in limbs, fingers and toes, excessive thirst, dry mouth, infrequent urination. All signs there could be a problem.

During high heat and humidity, you should be drinking fluids every hour to prevent dehydration. Wear looser, light color clothing, preferably made of cotton or of moisture wicking material. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, soda or sugar sweetened beverages. Misting fans are very beneficial. Keep cold packs on hand. Be sure to eat, but eat lighter meals.

Dehydration can occur quickly. Symptoms are a sign your body is being depleted of electrolytes. Electrolytes are minerals your body carries that affect “how” your body functions; particularly nerve and muscle function. Electrolytes balance blood acidity and pressure, help rebuild damaged tissue, help hydrate your body. Electrolytes include potassium, sodium, chloride, calcium, magnesium.

Good sources for replenishing electrolytes include coconut water, milk, watermelon water, pure fruit juice, smoothies, sports drinks, Pedialyte. Pedialyte even comes in popsicle form and also in tablet form. Water alone is not enough during extreme heat.

Living in Michigan we become weekend warriors. Sometimes we are kind of dragging on Monday morning. Be aware of what you do and how you feel over the weekend, because you don’t want to arrive “depleted” on Monday morning – you should start replenishing on Sunday evening. Summer goes by in a flash! Make it a safe one!