Extreme heat happens when temperatures are much higher and/or there is more humidity than normal. The following tips will help you and your loved ones stay safe during dangerous heat waves.
Stay indoors in air conditioning as much as possible.
Drink plenty of water during the day – don’t wait until you are thirsty
If working or playing outdoors, you should drink between two and four cups of water every hour while working.
Avoid drinks with caffeine, alcohol or large amounts of sugar.
Limit your outdoor activity to mornings and evenings and rest often in the shade.
Wear light-colored and loose-fitting clothing, a hat, sunglasses and an SPF15 or higher sunscreen.
Heatstroke is a life-threatening, heat-related illness that can be caused when your body overheats. Heatstroke usually occurs as a result of prolonged exposure to high temperatures. The danger of heatstroke increases when you combine physical exertion and high temperatures. Heatstroke requires emergency treatment.
Heatstroke Symptoms
An extremely high body temperature (above 103°F)
Red, hot and dry skin (no sweating)
Rapid, strong pulse
Throbbing headache
Dizziness
Nausea
Confusion
Unconsciousness
Heatstroke Treatment Steps
Call for emergency medical attention.
Get the victim to a shady area.
Cool the person rapidly (put them in a tub of cool water, place them in a cool shower, spray them with a garden hose, sponge them with cool water, or place bags of ice around them).
Do not give the victim any fluids (like water) to drink.
Prevent Heatstroke
Heat Exhaustion
Heat exhaustion is part of the heat-related illness spectrum. If not treated immediately, heat exhaustion can lead to heatstroke.
Heat Exhaustion Symptoms
Heavy sweating
Paleness (skin is a lighter color than normal)
Muscle cramps
Tiredness
Weakness
Dizziness
Headache
Nausea or vomiting
Fainting
Heat Exhaustion Treatment Steps
In the Event of Heat Exhaustion
Stop exertion
Move to shade or a cooler place
Hydrate with water or a sports drink
Seek medical attention if:
Symptoms are severe or worsen
Symptoms last more than one hour
The victim has heart problems or high blood pressure
Other Hot Weather Safety Tips
At Risk Populations
Check on those who may be more at risk from high temperatures like:
Infants and young children
People aged 65 or older
People with chronic medical conditions
Never leave your children, people who are elderly or have disabilities, or pets in a vehicle. Even on a mild day, temperatures inside a vehicle can reach dangerous levels.
