Preventing Heat Exhaustion on Moving Day

Image: Danilo Rizzuti / freedigitalphotos.net

There is an increase in demand for moving during summer. And this means you have to travel under the scorching heat of the sun. Because this is the time when people begin to plan their moves, it is great to be prepared of what lies ahead.

If you are packing and loading them into the moving truck, follow these tips to beat the heat:

• Start as early as possible. Professional movers recommend taking advantage of the cooler temperature and loading your stuff in the moving truck in the morning. 

• Avoid wearing dark-colored and tight fitting clothes. They usually absorb the heat so in order to avoid sweating more, allow your skin to breathe by wearing light-colored, loose clothes. 

• Take breaks. Don't put too much pressure on yourself. Take breaks to maintain your energy and feel good all throughout moving day.

• Stay hydrated. Be sure to drink plenty of water or give a hydration nudge to a busy family member. Avoid alcoholic and caffeinated beverages at this time.

• Locate the nearest shade. It can be in your garage or under a tree in your lawn. If the space permits, you can do a lot of tasks in the shade. You can even plug a fan for some air!

• Keep a towel handy. This will help you get rid of the sweat and eventually, make you feel comfortable during the day. 

Learn to recognize the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion: headache, fatigue, heavy sweating, rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure, feeling faint, nausea, pale skin that's moist and cool to touch, cramps, dark-colored urine, and low-grade fever. If you are experiencing these symptoms or notice someone having heat exhaustion, get out of the heat immediately. Find the nearest shade or go inside an air-conditioned room. Drink cold water or other beverages (except alcoholic/caffeinated drinks). Lay down and elevate the feet and sponge/spray with cool water. Be sure to loosen or remove restrictive clothing. If you notice weak pulse, or the person is disoriented, become unconscious, hyperventilating, or having shallow breathing, seek immediate medical attention.