National Heat Awareness Day is observed annually on the last Friday of May, which this year falls on May 26. National Heat Awareness Day is an initiative by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the National Weather Service to educate workers, employers, and the general public about the (preventable) health risks associated with heat in an effort to reduce the overall incidence of heat-related illnesses and deaths. This day was created to serve as a reminder that many outdoor workers and labourers are susceptible to heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion, dehydration, and even mortality. We provide advice on how raising awareness about these conditions and their prevention can assist in preventing such avoidable medical emergencies.
HISTORY OF NATIONAL HEAT AWARENESS DAY
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the National Weather Service, two federal agencies, established National Heat Awareness Day. Although there is no record of its first observance, we are including this day because of its significance and what it represents.
Every year, in the United States alone, people suffer and perish from heat-induced illnesses that could have been easily avoided with the proper protective measures and intervention. Outdoor workers (such as farmers and manual labourers), young children, elderly individuals, people with chronic medical conditions, and pregnant women are particularly susceptible to heat. Over the past few decades, heatwaves have increased, with a clear correlation to climate change and the global warming crisis. Recent American history demonstrates the appalling death toll caused by heatwaves. While various measures are being taken to adapt to rising temperatures and humidity, it is necessary to raise awareness in order to minimise losses.
Consequently, this day was created to raise awareness about the problems associated with elevated temperatures. This day is also observed to promote water consumption to prevent heat-related illnesses. Americans continue to underestimate the health risks associated with extreme heat or temperatures, despite the fact that this is the deadliest weather condition in the country. As a result of factors such as pollution causing temperatures to rise earlier each year, the onset of summer’s heat arrives sooner each year. Therefore, it is imperative that the nation as a whole begins to take notice of the reality that numerous groups require protection from an unexpected killer.
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5 TIPS ON BEATING THE HEAT THIS SUMMER
Stay nourished
The numerous advantages of consuming enough water and fluids cannot be overstated.
Keep your style breezy and airy.
Put on loose-fitting, lightweight apparel made from breathable materials such as cotton.
Spread on the sunscreen.
The significance of sunscreen as solar protection will never become obsolete.
Avoid going outdoors in peak periods
Avoid going outside during the sun’s peak hours, particularly without adequate protection.
Restrict your actions
Leave the intense workouts for the early morning or evening, and take it leisurely during the heat of the day.
NATIONAL HEAT AWARENESS DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | May 27 | Friday |
| 2023 | May 26 | Friday |
| 2024 | May 31 | Friday |
| 2025 | May 30 | Friday |
| 2026 | May 29 | Friday |
