NOVA Parks News

We have been experiencing some incredibly high temperatures over the last week and it is predicted to be over 90 degrees for the next five days in a row. Although we spend most of our time dreaming of summertime fun during the harsh winter months, there are some real dangers to be associated with hot weather.  It is always such a conundrum when you have waited all week for  an outdoor  avdenture and then the weekend rolls around with a forecast of a sweltering 98 degrees and real feel of 105. Trust us, we are right there with you, but safety must always be a first priority.  If you are spending time outdoors in extreme heat, always make sure that you are equip with plenty of water, ice or ice packs, cool rags and remember to spend as much time in cool, shaded areas as possible. The heat can be unbearable for children, elderly and pets. Here are some tips and guidelines to ensure that you and your loved ones are safe this summer and properly ride the heat wave of 2016.

Heat Wave Survival Tips:

• DRINK PLENTY OF WATER....ALL DAY LONG: This is so important! If you are outside in temperatures like we have been experiencing, you need to be constantly putting water into your body. Make children come in for water breaks and constantly ask when was the last time they drank water. 

• Limit outdoor time: Sometimes it is just too hot for our bodies to spend unlimited time outdoors. Shorten hikes, pool time and any strenuous outdoor activities. Save the long kayak trips for cooler days and find a shady tree to read underneath or go for a quick dip at your favorite swimming hole. 

• Enjoy outdoor activities early in the morning or after sun fall: The hottest point of the day is 3 p.m. but temperatures can rise quickly in the hours before the peak. If you normally hit the pools in the late afternoon, try bumping up your schedule to 10 am -12pm. On the other hand, if you have spent all day cooped up, blasting the AC and properly Netflix binging, round the family for a nighttime stroll through the neighborhood or have a back yard lighting bug catching competition. 

• Don't forget about your pets: Pets are people too! Well, practically. Remember to bring a water dish and plenty of water for your furry friend whenever the temperatures get high. It is much harder for our pets to cool down then it is for humans, so pay attention to cues such as panting and lethargy that may indicate they are overheating.

We are almost through this heatwave and then it is back to smooth, summer sailing. In the meantime, remember these quick tips to heat safety and by all means, chase down that ice cream man and cool off with a delicious treat if you must!