Summer’s showing up like it wants a raise. If you’re working outdoors, in a plant, or even just standing next to hot equipment long enough to question your life choices—here’s a practical reminder on heat safety that goes beyond “drink more water.”
Light-colored clothing > Dark clothing
Dark fabrics absorb more sunlight, turning you into a walking skillet. Light-colored, breathable clothing reflects heat and helps your body stay cooler longer.
Long sleeves? Yes—really.
A loose-fitting, light-colored long-sleeve shirt can be better than sunscreen. It reduces direct sun exposure, helps retain moisture on the skin (which aids cooling), and you don’t have to reapply it every 90 minutes.
Humidity = Hidden Danger
High humidity means sweat can’t evaporate, which is how your body cools itself. That makes heat illness way more likely, even if the temperature doesn’t look deadly on paper. If the air feels like soup, take it seriously.
Best Snacks & Drinks for Hydration
Electrolytes matter. Skip the energy drinks. Aim for:
• Water (obviously)
• Pickle juice (pucker juice)
• Coconut water
• Bananas, oranges, salted nuts, or jerky
Hydration isn’t just about fluids—it’s about balance. You sweat out salt and potassium
https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/drinking-pickle-juice
Don’t Forget UV Eye Protection
UV damage to your eyes is real. Polarized safety sunglasses or UV-blocking lenses aren’t just for style—they help prevent long-term damage and reduce eye fatigue on long, bright shifts.
Foot Care for Sweaty Boots
Hot feet = blisters, fungus, and some smells that would scare a dog. Use moisture-wicking socks and foot powder, and air those boots out after shifts. Keep an extra pair of dry socks in your bag and change them mid-shift if needed.
Bottom line:
Heat illness isn’t a weakness—it’s biology. Know the signs. Watch out for your crew. And when someone tells you “it’s not that hot,” remind them the morgue is air conditioned too.
Stay safe out there. Don’t be tomorrows safety briefing.
CommentGatorade also provides a source of electrolytes. I know you know that. But humidity wears this w Tx boy out!