This news item expired on 9/30/2012, so the information below could be outdated or incorrect.

How Hot is TOO Hot?


Here are some great guidelines for working in the heat.

Heat Category 1 –   78 to 81° F

  • drink at least 1/2 quart of water per hour
  • continuous activity allowed

Heat Category 2 –   82 to 85° F

  • drink at least 1/2 quart of water per hour
  • 40 minutes of work/20 minutes of rest

Heat Category 3 –   85 to 88° F

  • drink at least 1 quart of water per hour
  • 30 minutes of work/30 minutes of rest

Heat Category 4 –   88 to 90° F

  • drink at least 1.5 quarters of water per hour
  • 20 minutes of work/40 minutes of rest

Heat Category 5 –   >90° F

  • drink more than 2 quarts of water per hour
  • 10 minutes of work/50 minutes of rest

Drink plenty of water and avoid soft drinks, caffeinated beverages or drinks high in sugar. 

Don't wait to be thirsty to start drinking water, this is a late sign and you already behind on fluid intake.