As temperatures rise across New Mexico, now is a good time to reinforce heat safety with your coworkers, friends, and family. A few simple precautions can help prevent heat-related illness and keep colleagues safe on the job and loved ones healthy while spending time outside.
Heat Safety Best Practices
- 💧 Drink water frequently—even before you feel thirsty.
- 🧂 Replace electrolytes during long periods of time in extreme heat.
- 🌤️ Take regular breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.
- 🕒 Schedule the most physically demanding activities during cooler morning hours whenever possible.
- 👕 Wear lightweight, light-colored, breathable clothing and other appropriate sun protection.
- 🤝 Check in on friends and coworkers, especially those with increased sensitivity to heat, throughout the day.
- 🌡️ Provide time to gradually acclimate to activities in the heat.
- 📋 Review heat illness prevention strategies and signs of heat illness before spending extended periods of time outside.
⚠️ Know the Signs of Heat Illness
Heat Exhaustion: Heavy sweating, dizziness, headache, nausea, weakness, cool or clammy skin.
Heat Stroke (Medical Emergency): Confusion, altered mental state, hot dry skin (or heavy sweating), loss of consciousness, seizures, or a body temperature above 103°F.
If you suspect heat stroke, call 911 immediately, move the person to a cooler location, and begin cooling them while waiting for emergency responders.
Keeping safety front and center protects what matters most—our people.
