HOW MUCH DO YOU KNOW ABOUT HEAT STRESS?

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The body is affected by heat stress more than most people realize. Take a few minutes to test your knowledge about the hazards of heat stress. It may prevent you from falling victim to heat stress this summer.

1. True False High temperatures put stress on the body because the surface blood vessels expand and the pulse increases.

2. True False You only need to replace fluids when you feel hot or thirsty.

3. True False Applying sunscreen once before work is enough to protect you throughout the day.

4. True False A sunburn can affect your body's cooling system.

5. True False Heat-stress symptoms can include high body temperature, heavy perspiring, cool and clammy skin as well as dry skin and headache.

6. True False It is important to replace vital body fluids with five to seven ounces of water every 15 to 20 minutes to avoid dehydration when working in a hot environment.

7. True False As long as you are sweating, your body is being cooled.

8. True False Heat stress victims should have their legs elevated and muscles massaged in the shade.

9. True False Since heat rash can be caused by wet skin, it is not advisable to bathe regularly during hot and humid weather.

10. True False A hot meal can reduce your body's ability to release heat thus contributing to the potential for heat stress disorders.

(Source: Coastal Video Communications Corp. handbooks, "Heat Stress" and "Beat the Heat")

(Answers: 1.T 2.F 3.F 4.T 5.T 6.T 7.F 8.T 9.F 10.T)