Cape Cod’s hot and humid summers can bring serious health risks, especially for older adults, young children, people with chronic conditions, outdoor workers and those without access to cooling or hydration. Here’s how to protect yourself and your loved ones.

Stay Hydrated
Drink water regularly throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Limit alcohol, caffeine and sugary drinks, which can worsen dehydration. For children, offer fluids frequently — breast milk or formula for under 6 months, and water with electrolytes for older kids if they’re sweating heavily.

Protect Yourself from the Sun
Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) at least 15–20 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours or after swimming/sweating. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and a wide-brimmed hat for extra shade.

Limit Heat Exposure
Avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day (often 10 am–4 pm). If it’s hot, spend time indoors in air-conditioned spaces or shaded areas. For children, keep them indoors during peak heat and use shade, fans or cooling devices.

Watch for Heat Illness Signs

• Heat exhaustion: heavy sweating, weakness, cold/pale/clammy skin, nausea, fainting.
• Heat stroke: body temp above 103°F, hot/dry or damp skin, rapid pulse, confusion or unconsciousness — call 911 immediately.
  If symptoms occur, move to a cooler place, loosen clothing, apply cool cloths, and sip water. Seek medical help if symptoms persist.

Check on Others
Regularly check on family, friends, neighbors and pets — especially those who may be more vulnerable. Never leave children or pets in a parked car.

Special Tips for Children
They lose fluids and heat more quickly than adults. Keep them hydrated, dress in loose, wicking fabrics and avoid prolonged sun exposure, especially for newborns.

Medications

Some prescriptions can increase your sensitivity to heat.  If you have any concerns, please call for an appointment to review your medications with your prescriber.

Community Resources
Barnstable County Emergency Management and local medical centers monitor heat conditions and may open cooling centers during extreme heat. For updates, check the Barnstable County website or local hospital pages.

By staying hydrated, protecting yourself from the sun, and avoiding peak heat hours, you can enjoy Cape Cod’s summer while reducing the risk of heat-related illness. 

Best wishes from your Community Health Center team.