EXTREME HEAT

6/29/2017 (Permalink)

Helpful tips on how to stay safe from the heat

Extreme Heat

     As the summer approaches, its time to consider safety precautions for extreme heat in the coming months. Heat affects all people, but especially the young, elderly, sick and over weight. Urban area residents also have a greater chance of being affected than those live in rural areas.

     According to the EPA, "the sun can heat dry, exposed urban surfaces such as roofs and pavements, to temperatures 50-90 degrees F hotter than air, while shaded or moist surfaces -often in more rural surroundings remain close to air temperatures."

    Weather you are in rural or urban there are several things you can do to prepare for and prevent extreme heat from affecting you. If possible stay in doors with air conditioning. Be sure to check on your pets that may be outside or bring them inside. Stay hydrated and limit alcohol and caffeine intake..

     If you must go outside, wear loose fitting, light colored clothing, and be sure to apply sunscreen often. Pay attention to sighs of heat exhaustion, which are heavy sweating; weakness; cold, pale and clammy skin; nausea or vomiting; and fainting, according to the center of Disease Control and Prevention  CDC). Heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke which is life-threating. Signs of heat stroke are high body temperature (103 degree F), rapid and strong pulse, and possible unconsciousness. If you think someone has had a heat stroke call 911 immediately and move the person somewhere cool, wet clothes or a bath.  Do not give a person with a heat stroke fluids, and treat the situation as a serious medical emergency (CDC).

    Extreme heat is a serious danger. For more information on preparation and prevention visit ready.gov or cdc.gov