VERMONT — The Vermont Vegetable and Berry Grower Association at UVM is offering this hot weather guidance for farming.

Steps to take to reduce heat stress:

• Plan strenuous tasks for cooler times of the day — morning or early evening.

• Help employees gradually acclimate to hot conditions by initially exposing them to short work periods and more frequent breaks.

• Arrange for work in shaded, well-ventilated areas whenever possible.

• Watch for high temperature/high humidity outdoor conditions and adjust assignments to reduce risk.

• Use fans to help evaporate sweat, providing an important cooling effect.

• Wear lightweight, breathable clothing.

• Wear a hat to provide sun protection when working outdoors. Hats should be loose-fitting and well-ventilated.

• Apply sunscreen to protect against sunburn and skin cancer.

Drink often!

• Dehydration accelerates heat illness potential.

• Water is the best (and least expensive) drink for outdoor work. Sports drinks are OK for most people but avoid sugary soda and caffeine. Salt tablets are not recommended unless a doctor advises them.

• Anyone who must restrict fluid intake because of a medical condition should check with a doctor about how to work safely in hot weather.

If someone is experiencing heat-related symptoms:

• Take the affected employee to a cooler area, such as in the shade or air conditioning.

• Cool the employee immediately.

• Immerse the employee in cold water or an ice bath. Create an ice bath by placing all of the available ice into a large container with water. Ice baths are the best method to cool workers rapidly in an emergency.

• Remove outer layers of clothing, especially heavy protective clothing.

• Place ice or cold wet towels on the head, neck, abdomen, armpits and groin.

• Use fans to circulate air around the worker.

• Never leave an employee with heat-related illness alone. The illness can rapidly become worse. Stay with the employee.

When in doubt, call 911!