As we continue to monitor the heat advisories in parts of the United States, here are 10 tips that are helping UPSers and anyone who’s spending time outdoors when the temperatures are high.
Rehydrate
- Drink three 8-ounce glasses of water 15 to 30 mins before you start work.
- Drink 16 to 32 ounces of water every hour on a hot day.
- Be careful not to drink too much water too fast.
Refresh
- Eat foods with high water content like cucumbers, lettuce, celery, bell peppers, tomatoes, watermelon and strawberries.
- Get plenty of electrolytes. Drink electrolyte sports drinks and avoid drinks containing lots of sugar. Eat foods like avocados, chia seeds, celery, tuna and bananas.
Recover
- Get used to your environment and pace yourself. Allow your body time to adjust to working in the heat.
- Take your scheduled meals and breaks in a cool zone or shaded area.
- Make sure you’re well-rested and prepared for hot weather.
Respond
- If signs or symptoms of heat stress happen, get help immediately and cool off.
- If you or someone else is experiencing heat stroke, call emergency services and lower the body temperature as quickly as possible (immerse or wet the body with cold water and ice).
“Athletes look for every edge possible to improve their performance and game,” said Chris Valletta, co-founder of MISSION – a major activewear company that UPS has partnered with to provide our drivers special cooling hats and sleeves. “If you're able to stay cooler longer during activity in the heat, you will be more comfortable, improve your safety and improve your performance.”
A Message to UPSers:
Your safety will always be our top priority. On June 13, we reached an agreement with the Teamsters on new solutions that will improve airflow, temperature and comfort for UPS employees. Included in these solutions is equipping all newly purchased U.S. small package delivery vehicles with air conditioning starting Jan. 1, 2024. This news comes on the heels of the rollout of new cooling gear and enhanced training that takes heat-safety science from the sports world and brings it to UPS.
Nothing is more important than getting home safely after work. That’s why we’ve taken these important steps that build on our culture of safety and why we remain committed to continuous improvements.
Learn more: Find out five ways UPS is improving heat safety for employees. And check out this CBS News Texas video about UPSers preparing to work safely in hot weather.