Every Sip Counts...

Living in the beautiful, warm, Arizona desert we have learned some of the tools to use to be able to move forward in the 100+ heat. We wake up early and get our work done so we can rest in the heat of the day. We hydrate our body with thirst quenching water throughout the day.

In the United States, approximately 400 people die each year from extreme heat and 200 additional deaths occur with heat as a contributing factor. Heat-related illness includes conditions resulting from hyperthermia. These conditions range from heat cramps and heat exhaustion to heat stroke.

This morning at church we were reminded that there is a need for Water Respite. Many of the homeless and street people do not have access to drink 1 cup of water every 15 minutes while they are outdoors. We can all do the math and realize that it would be almost impossible for them to have access to the amount they need. Shelters have had to close their indoor facilities because of Covid. This means that they are in the outdoor environment for a longer period every day.

One of the things we have become aware of this year is that the heat is hitting regions of the United States that we never would have thought would experience 100-degree weather in June.

Heat Stroke Symptoms:

· High body temperature (103 degrees or higher)

· Hot, red, dry, or damp skin

· Fast, strong pulse

· Headache

· Dizziness

· Nausea

· Confusion

· Losing consciousness (passing out)

Heat Exhaustion Symptoms:

· Heavy sweating

· Cold, pale, and clammy skin

· Fast, weak pulse

· Nausea or vomiting

· Muscle cramps

· Tiredness or weakness

· Dizziness

· Headache

· Fainting (passing out)

As we are Able N’ Disabled and Moving Forward in Retirement we need to remind ourselves to take the time to donate water, check on someone that may not have access to air conditioning. Carry water in your car and review the above symptoms so we can be of help to others.

The symptoms above and this scripture were on our Water Respite card at church today, “For truly, I say to you, whoever gives you a cup of water to drink because you belong to Christ will by no means lose his reward.” Mark 9:41