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


Do ...
• Do reschedule strenuous activities to a cooler time of day.
• Do dress light. Pale colors reflect light. Natural fibers like cotton and linen help you feel cooler.
• Do drink plenty of (non-alcoholic) fluids, even if you don't feel thirsty.
• 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:

• 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.

• 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!

 

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A handful of round boy scout patches.

Did You Know?
... that Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area includes lands which once belonged to 5 New Jersey boy scout camps. Private and religious camps also flourished along the riverbanks that are now part of the park at sites such as Turn Farm PA, Coppermine Inn NJ, and Coppermine Hiking Area NJ.
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Last Updated: September 15, 2011 at 11:06 MST