Extreme heat will continue to hit the Southeast this week. Experts are suggesting safety tips for individuals who work outside.
Temperatures are expected to reach into the upper 90 degrees Fahrenheit early next week. Pam Knox is an expert in climate and agriculture with the UGA Extension, and she says people working outside in industries like agriculture should also pay attention to the heat index, the combination of air temperature and humidity levels.
“The humidity makes it really hard to cool off due to sweating. It makes it much harder for your organs to work properly. It’s important for people working outside to take frequent breaks in the shade, to drink a lot of water so they stay well hydrated and to take rest breaks so they’re not overworking,” she says.
UGA Extension experts say that dizziness, rapid heartbeat, nausea and vomiting are warning signs of heat-stress related illness.
Agricultural workers can contact their county’s UGA Extension officer at Extension | UGA Cooperative Extension for more information.
