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Dehydration

Last reviewed

Dehydration occurs when your body doesn’t have enough fluids and electrolytes to work properly.

Prevent dehydration

When you’re in the heat your body needs more water than usual.

  • Drink small amounts of water over time, before, during, and after being in the heat.
  • Drink electrolyte beverages while exercising in the heat.
  • Avoid sugary beverages, alcohol, and caffeine - before, during, and after being in the heat.

University of Iowa clinicians recommend three quarts of water for the average person, but on warmer days your body needs more than that.

Watch out for signs of dehydration

  • Thirst
  • Urinating less often than usual 
  • Darker-colored urine
  • Dry skin 
  • Tiredness 
  • Dizziness 
  • Fainting
Illustration of heat illness

Heat illness affects everyone: you, your family, your neighbors, your customers.

Use this one-page guide to spread awareness of the dangers of heat illness.