Senator Correa Encourages Awareness of Heat-Related Illnesses as Summer Heat Approaches

SANTA ANA, CA – Every year, hundreds of workers across the country suffer from serious heat-related illnesses. If not addressed quickly, heat exhaustion can turn into heat stroke, which has killed, on average, more than 30 workers annually since 2003. Most of these deaths occurred with new workers who had not yet acclimated to weather conditions or been provided the proper protective clothing required for their job.

“We are blessed with beautiful and mild weather here in Southern California, however, this means that many of us aren’t prepared for unusually hot weather and its potential harms,” said Senator Correa. “Simple things can help prevent heat-related illness, such as drinking lots of water, regularly applying sunscreen, and limiting unnecessary exposure to the sun. Children and seniors, who are more susceptible to hot weather-related illnesses, need to take extra precautions.

To help employers, Cal/OSHA is offering a series of heat illness prevention trainings around the state. The classes include information on how to best cope with working temperatures above 85 degrees, including making cool, clean drinking water available to workers, and encouraging the drinking of small amounts of water frequently.

Families and should also be mindful of the dangers of heat exposure. Parents should remind children playing soccer, basketball, tennis, golf, or other outdoor sports to stay hydrated during the days of summer. The Federal Food and Drug Administration recommends re-applying sunscreen every two hours, or wearing clothing to protect skin from the harmful rays of the sun. Protecting yourself against the sun and consuming cold drinks with electrolytes will keep everyone safe and happy.

Senator Correa represents the 34th District, which includes the cities of Anaheim, Buena Park, Fullerton, Garden Grove, Santa Ana, Stanton and Westminster.