Keepina Cool

Celebrate summer while staying safe by being aware of heat dangers for riders.

- BY MEGAN ARSZMAN

Summer is finally here! The longer days mean more time at the barn, more time with friends, and more time outside in general.

If you live in a cold area, you know how miserable it can be to spend time at the barn in the cold. But it's important to remember to be careful during the summer, too. When the temperatures rise, so can concerns of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. We know all about keeping our horses cool and comfortable throughout the summer, but what about ourselves?

Your health in the heat is equally as important.

HEAT DANGERS

What can happen if you get too hot at the barn?

Cramping: If you start to feel cramping in your legs or your core, this is a sign to get out of the heat and hydrate, because this can develop into a bigger problem.

Heat Exhaustion: If you start to sweat profusely, become nauseous, have a headache, and/or feel light-headed, your condition has progressed to heat exhaustion.

Heatstroke: This is when your temperature regulation fails, and your body temperature is 104 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. You can stop sweating and feel fatigued, weak, or dizzy.

Don't let fear of these stop you from enjoying the summer outside; you just need to find ways to keep cool while completing chores, riding, and having fun.

HOW TO STAY COOL