The combination of air temperatures in the 90s and dew points ranging from 65-75 increases the risk of heat-related illness, such as heat stroke and hear exhaustion.

We understand farmers don’t get a snooze button. From before the sun rises to hours after it sets, farmers are in the elements and inside hot barns taking care of cattle and chores – no matter how hot is it!

The good news is heat-related illnesses can be prevented.

Individuals commonly affected by heat-related illnesses include outdoor workers, such as construction workers, agricultural workers, baggage handlers, electrical power transmission and control workers and yard maintenance workers.

6 Tips to Prevent Heat-Related Illnesses

1. Drink water every 15 minutes, even if you are not thirsty.
2. Rest in the shade to cool down.
3. Wear a hat and light-colored clothing.
4. Learn the signs of heat illness and what to do in an emergency.
5. Keep an eye on fellow workers.
6. “Easy does it” on your first days of work in the heat. You need to get used to it.

Source: OSHA. Water. Rest. Shade. campaign.

Additional Resources

Safety is critical. Use these resources to keep yourself, employees, and co-workers safe, especially during hot and humid days.

Agri-Safe Network

• Heat-Related Illnessses (pdf). Handout that covers the signs and symptoms of various heat-related illnesses, including heat stroke, exhaustion, heat syncope (fainting), heat cramps, and more.

OSHA

• Health Effects of Heat. Handouts available in both English (pdf) and Spanish (pdf).
• Mobile App (iPhone & Android): Heat Safety Tool: https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/heatillness/heat_index/heat_app.html