heat wave tips

Vocabulary Word of the Day: Heat Wave
A heat wave is a prolonged period of excessively hot weather, which may be accompanied by high humidity.

North Texas is currently experiencing a heat wave that could be record-breaking. Temperatures may remain above 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 C) during the duration of your stay in Denton. It is important to stay safe and hydrated.

Here are some tips from the National Weather Service to help you during a heat wave:

• Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Light colors will reflect away some of the sun's energy.
• Eat small meals and eat more often. Avoid foods that are high in protein, which increase metabolic heat.
• Stay hydrated regularly and often. Your body needs water to keep cool.
• Drink lots of fluids EVEN IF YOU DO NOT FEEL THIRSTY. Drink water, Gatorade or iced tea. Drinking only Coke, Pepsi, etc. will NOT prevent dehydration.
• Water is the safest liquid to drink during heat emergencies. The most important goal is to avoid dehydration. Please read common symptoms of dehydration below. If you are experiencing these symptoms, please notify your teacher or a program coordinator.

Mild to moderate dehydration is likely to cause:

• Dry, sticky mouth
• Decreased urine output — eight hours or more without urination
• Few or no tears when crying
• Abnormally dry skin
• Headache
• Constipation
• Dizziness or lightheadedness