How to Safely Join Outdoor Events During a Heatwave
During the 2022 Dobbs Day celebration our Director of Activism, Lauren Handy, experienced sun poisoning. She was not prepared to be out for long periods of time during a heatwave. This year the PAAU Team wants to share tips on how to prepare for hot weather.
How much water should you drink?
Remember to drink water before and after your outdoor event. Read more guidelines from the CDC here.
More Tips for Heat Safety with Water:
Freeze your water bottles the night before and let them halfway thaw before you leave for the event.
Consider buying electrolyte drink mixes to add to your water.
Want to reduce the amount of single-use plastic used at outdoor events?
If you want to make a bigger impact than simply using your own refillable cup, bringing jugs of water to your outdoor event for others to refill their water bottles with can address concerns for using larger amounts of single-use plastic.
When should you reapply sunscreen?
You should reapply sunscreen every 2 hours. This means packing sunscreen with you if your event lasts longer. More information on sunscreen is available here.
What are other ways to stay cool and protect yourself?
Cooling towels
Personal fans
Umbrellas
Hats
Sunglasses
All of the items listed above are very inexpensive at dollar stores, or can even be found at local thrift shops.
Look Hot While Staying Cool
You can incorporate the cooling tools listed above as activism props. This can look like decorating your umbrella with a protest message or wearing an eye-catching hat. Make it fun while protecting yourself from the heat!
What are the possible dangers of extreme heat?
Extreme heat, especially when combined with humidity, is the most fatal form of extreme weather. A recent report by The Weather Channel states that “excessive heat claims more than 180 lives in the U.S. each year on average.” Heat can also exacerbate existing health conditions relating to the heart and kidneys, according to the World Health Organization.
What are some signs you’re pushing yourself too far?
Throughout the event be aware how your body feels. Set a timer on your phone for every 1-2 hours so you can check-in with yourself. No one wants anyone to push themselves too far and get hurt.
Signs You May Need To Take a Break or Leave
Mental Confusion
Physical Exhaustion
Irritability
Dizziness
Painful or Bright Red Skin
Slowing of Speech
Read more about identifying the signs of heat-related illnesses here.
If you find yourself or see others exhibiting these signs its time to take a break or if serious enough leave. Remember to pay closer attention to older folks, young children, and people with medical vulnerabilities.
A world beyond abortion includes all of us and that means everyone's safety is important. So be honest with yourself and others about your needs. Have fun, stay safe and keep on fighting the good fight!
Until total victory,
The PAAU Team