Hot days with plenty of sunshine can mean fun for some, but for people who have to work in the heat, it can be dangerous.
Julie Franklin works a summer job at Nacho Ninjas food truck. She learned quickly the importance of finding ways to stay cool.
"[We] eat a lot of snow cones. Drink a lot of water. Or try to go find water or a pool after we get off work," she said.
Working at a food truck– like many jobs– pose heat-related risks besides the sun. Standing over a hot grill in a relatively enclosed place means more heat dangers for people like Franklin.
"We go through water like crazy. Especially during these three summer months," she said.
Health-related issues for people who work in the heat are wide-ranging.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration calls heatstroke the most serious form of heat-related illness– the body becomes unable to regulate temperature, sweating stops and a patient can show signs of confusion, loss of consciousness, even seizures.
Taking breaks to cool off and drinking plenty of fluids can help prevent heat-related illnesses. But medical experts say if you suspect someone is suffering from heatstroke you should not hesitate to get them medical help immediately.
Read more about OSHA's heat-related warnings here.
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