How to Stay Safe During Summer Heat: Dr. Jeffrey Adams Explains What Everyone Should Know

Emergency physician Dr. Jeffrey Adams explains how to prevent heat stroke, stay safe around water, avoid summer injuries, and recognize medical emergencies

“Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Usually temperatures over 104 degrees Fahrenheit in the internal body core temperature and what accompanies that is confusion and altered mental status.”

By-Hank Stolz
Photo- submitted

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Worcester, MA- While spending time outdoors is one of the best parts of summer, extreme heat can quickly become dangerous. Emergency Medicine physician Dr. Jeffrey Adams of St. Vincent Hospital says understanding the difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke is critical.

Heat exhaustion typically develops after prolonged exposure to heat and heavy sweating. Symptoms include weakness, dizziness, nausea, headache, muscle cramps, and dehydration. If recognized early, moving to a cool place, drinking water, and resting can often reverse the condition.

Heat stroke, however, is an entirely different emergency.

“Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Usually temperatures over 104 degrees Fahrenheit in the internal body core temperature and what accompanies that is confusion and altered mental status.”

Anyone experiencing confusion, unconsciousness, or extremely high body temperature should receive immediate emergency medical attention.

Why Humidity Makes Hot Weather Even More Dangerous

Many people focus only on the air temperature, but Dr. Adams explains that the heat index, which combines temperature and humidity, is often a better indicator of risk.

High humidity prevents sweat from evaporating efficiently, making it much harder for the body to cool itself naturally.

Those most vulnerable include:

• Older adults
• Young children
• People with heart disease
• Individuals with chronic medical conditions
• Outdoor workers
• Athletes

Hydration is Your Best Defense

According to Dr. Adams, preventing heat illness starts with something simple: drinking enough water.

He advises people to avoid waiting until they feel thirsty and instead drink fluids consistently throughout the day.

“The best thing that you can do is drink lots of water, stay hydrated. We want to make sure that people are drinking enough water that they’re peeing clear.”

Alcohol and sugary drinks can actually worsen dehydration, making water the preferred choice during periods of intense heat.

Water Safety Starts Before You Get In

Summer also brings increased swimming and boating activity.

Dr. Adams recommends several simple precautions that dramatically reduce the risk of drowning:

• Never swim alone
• Wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket while boating
• Designate a sober adult water watcher
• Closely supervise children around any body of water

Many tragedies occur in just seconds and often without loud cries for help.

Common Summer Injuries Seen in the Emergency Department

Warm weather also leads to an increase in preventable injuries.

Among the most common are:

• Cuts from rocks and broken glass
• Sunburns
• Dehydration
• Water-related accidents
• Sports injuries

Dr. Adams recommends wearing protective footwear near lakes and rivers, applying sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, and seeking shade whenever possible.

Mosquitoes and Food Safety Deserve Attention Too

Summer health concerns extend beyond heat.

Mosquito-borne illnesses such as West Nile virus remain present in Massachusetts each year. Anyone experiencing persistent nausea, vomiting, severe headaches, or neurological symptoms after mosquito exposure should seek medical evaluation.

Food safety is equally important during cookouts and outdoor gatherings.

Dr. Adams encourages:

• Frequent hand washing
• Thoroughly washing fruits and vegetables
• Keeping cold foods cold
• Cooking ground meats to 160°F
• Avoiding cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods

A Few Simple Precautions Can Prevent Serious Emergencies

Most summer emergencies are preventable.

Staying hydrated, limiting time in extreme heat, protecting your skin, practicing water safety, and handling food properly can significantly reduce the risk of illness and injury while allowing families to safely enjoy everything the season has to offer.