Don't Let the Heat Make You Sick
Did you know that on average, extreme heat has killed more people in the last 10 years than any other weather phenomena. Heat-related emergencies can be prevented. Children, people with disabilities, and pets should never be left in a car. Temperatures can quickly rise as high as 50 degrees warmer than the outside air temperature. Within 10 minutes the inside temperature of a vehicle could reach a potentially fatal 109 degrees on a 90-degree day.
This summer as the weather becomes warmer you can use the following recommendations to help keep you, your family, and your pets safe:
Hydrate. Even if you are not thirsty, drink plenty of water to avoid becoming dehydrated. This is especially informant for those working or exercising outside in the heat.
Educate yourself. Know the current temperature and heat index forecast. If the temperature hits 85 degrees or the heat index hits 90 degrees, take action to stay cool. Know the warning signs of heat illness. The National Weather Service (NWS) uses several methods for calculating possible extreme temperatures and issues their official heat watches, warnings, and advisories. Sign up for alerts through the FEMA app or see the NWS website at weather.gov.
Act quickly when heat illness is suspected. Seek medical treatment immediately if any of these warning signs are present: cramping, rapid pulse, heavy sweating, hot red skin, dizziness, confusion, nausea, and/or vomiting.
Take it easy. Avoid overexertion if working or exercising outside. Between the hours of 11 am and 6 pm, take hourly breaks in shade or air conditioning.
Never leave children or pets in cars. A young child’s body does not adapt to rising temperatures as effectively as an adult. A child’s temperature may rise 3 to 5 times faster than an adult, which makes any exposure to extreme heat more dangerous for them. Pets are also very vulnerable to hyperthermia (overheating) as they can only regulate heat through panting and small sweat glands on the pads of the paws. A temperature of 104 degrees puts your pets at risk of possible organ damage or death.
