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Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.. photo is just around the bend ...
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Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Surviving the Sun: Heat Stroke, Sunburn
Art at Phoenix Antiques, a historic lease property within the park

Prevention

Don't ...
ϑ Don't drink alcoholic beverages.
ϑ Don't overeat.
ϑ Don't take salt tablets unless specified by a doctor.
ϑ Don't get sunburned! Sunburn makes it harder for your body to cool off.


Do ...

ϑ Do reschedule strenuous activities to a cooler time of day.
ϑ Do dress light. Pale colors reflect light. Natural fibers like cotton and linen help you feel cooler.
ϑ Do drink plenty of (non-alcoholic) fluids, even if you don't feel thirsty.
ϑ Do pack a few drinks with electrolytes —natural chemicals that your body needs to deal with the heat.

 
Lifeguard at a river beach in the recreation area

Beyond Sunburn ...
Learn to recognize these serious conditions of heat exposure,
and what to do about them:
ϑ Heat exhaustion: heavy sweating, weakness; cold, pale, and clammy skin, fainting and sometimes vomiting. Body temperature may be normal. First Aid: Rest in cool or shady place. Drink plenty of water or electrolyte drink. If vomiting occurs, seek immediate medical attention.
ϑ Heat Stroke: Hot, dry skin; rapid and strong pulse; high body temperature; possible unconsciousness. First Aid: Move patient to a cool place and reduce body temperature with cool bathing or sponging. Do NOT give fluids.
Heat stroke is a serious, sometimes fatal, emergency; get medical help right away!

 
A young man in colonial uniform, with a musket  

Did You Know?
... that in the 1750s, the northwest border of New Jersey (now Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area) was a frontier of the English colonies. In the French & Indian (Seven Years) War, a string of forts protected these settlements. The sites of seven of these outposts are in the park.
more...

Last Updated: September 09, 2006 at 11:54 EST