MINNEAPOLIS (Prairie News Service) – Minnesota could see temperatures reach the 90s in the coming days and as residents try to stay hydrated, one health expert said consistency is key.
There is guidance for employers to keep outdoor workers safe.
Dr. Katie Loth, associate professor of family medicine and community health at the University of Minnesota Medical School, said if you are engaged in strenuous activity on a hot day, it is important to drink water throughout the day, and not front-load your water consumption before heading out or solely replenishing fluids at night.
She stressed consistency is one way to keep your body’s internal temperature in check.
“Giving it water throughout the day is one of the best ways to manage that,” Loth recommended. “The best way to know if you need more water is to pay attention to your thirst.”
Dehydration signs include dry mouth, dizziness and reduced urination. Loth emphasized employers should ensure outdoor workers, especially those on a remote job site, have frequent breaks for water they do not have to go far to get. Other safeguards, such as shade, can reduce the need for water.
This past week, the Biden administration announced a proposed federal standard for protecting workers from excessive heat. The planned rule would be the first of its kind on a national scale as millions of workers around the country endure more stretches of extreme heat in a changing climate.
Loth noted workers can help themselves, too.
“A lot of people do really well to just have some kind of visual reminder,” Loth observed. “Carrying a water bottle with them, having it with them at their work site, rather than sort of looking for water where they’re at. You know, the more accessible it is, the more likely people are to drink water.”
Another aid is to set an alarm or notification on your phone to remind you to drink water. Meanwhile, Loth also pointed out that not sweating during vigorous physical activity could be a sign your dehydration levels are putting you at greater risk for heatstroke.
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