When temperatures rise, it’s time to take action to protect against heat-related illnesses, which can be very serious and even fatal, especially for the elderly, young children and those who have chronic diseases.
Heat-related illnesses happen when your body cannot cool itself quickly enough. Some heat illnesses are mild – like heat rash, sunburn, and heat cramps. Others – like heat exhaustion, dehydration, and heat stroke – can be severe or even life-threatening. These simple steps can help protect against scorching heat.
Clear the Car:
Never leave anyone, especially children, pets, or those with special needs in a parked car, even briefly. Temperatures in the car can become life threatening within a few minutes.
One trick for parents is to leave their phone or purse near their baby’s car seat.
If you see an unattended infant or young child in a car even if the windows are cracked, call law enforcement.
Stay Cool:
Use air conditioning in your home or go to an air-conditioned building such as a store, public library, restaurant, friend or relatives home. An electric fan can help cool you down until temperatures reach the mid-90s or higher.
Take a cool shower or bath.
Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing and stay out of the sun as much as possible. If you are outside, wear sunscreen and a ventilated hat (a hat made out of straw or mesh), even if it is cloudy.
Drink Fluids:
Drink more fluids even if you are not very active. Avoid alcohol, caffeine and sugary drinks, since these drinks can dry your body out.
If you are on fluid restrictions or diuretics, ask your doctor about fluid intake.
If you must be out in the heat, follow these tips:
Try to limit your outdoor activity to morning and evening hours.
If you must exercise, drink two to four glasses of cool, nonalcoholic fluids each hour. A sports drink can replace the salt and minerals you lose in sweat.
Rest often in shady areas – at least every hour.
Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. Apply sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher. Broad spectrum or UVA/UVB protection is best.
Know the symptoms of heat-related illness and what to do.
Symptoms
Heavy sweating
Weakness
Muscle cramping
Cold, pale and clammy skin
Fast, weak pulse
Nausea or vomiting
What you should do
Heat exhaustion
Move to a cooler location
Lie down and loosen clothing
Apply cool, wet cloths to as much of your body as possible
Drink water
If you have vomited and it continues, seek medical attention immediately
Fainting
Heat Stroke
Body temperature over 103° F
Hot, red, dry or moist skin
Rapid and strong pulse
Possible unconsciousness
Call 911– this is a medical emergency!
Move to a cooler location
Lower body temperature with cool cloths or a bath
Do NOT give fluids