July and August are traditionally the hottest months of the year. Heat related illnesses are a serious concern, particularly when physically active outdoors, such as when working in the garden.
The warning signs of heat illnesses
There are three levels of heat illnesses: heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and the most serious, heat stroke. Symptoms include muscle cramps, sweating too much, pale clammy skin, dizziness, fainting, rapid heart rate, confusion, nausea, or vomiting.
In all cases, immediately STOP what you’re doing, move to a cooler spot, remove extra clothing, wet down with a cool cloth, slowly drink water or a sports drink. Get medical help as needed, especially in case of heat stroke.
How to protect yourself
Drink water regularly! Staying hydrated is the most important criteria.
Work in the garden during the morning or evening when it’s cooler.
Work in the shade as much as possible.
Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and apply sunscreen.
Wear light weight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing with long sleeves.
Take regular breaks.
Don’t work alone. Observe how you and fellow gardener(s) are doing.
Don’t let hot summer days stop you from enjoying working in your garden caring for your plants. Protect yourself by following these commonsense steps!
For more information on recognizing the signs of different heat illnesses and how to manage them see:
Red Cross on Extreme Heat Safety - https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/extreme-heat-safety.html
CA Dept. of Public Health Extreme Heat - https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/EPO/Pages/Extreme%20Heat%20Pages/BI_Natural-Disasters_Extreme-Heat.aspx
Denise Godbout-Avant has been a UC Master Gardener in Stanislaus County with UC Cooperative Extension since 2020.
