Beat the heat this summer; Stay safe in extreme conditions
from Allamakee Public Health and the Public Health Collaborative
As temperatures increase this summer, stay informed and prepared for extreme heat conditions. Heat-related illnesses occur when a person’s body temperature rises faster than it can cool itself down. Many factors can increase body temperature including dehydration, living and working in spaces without air conditioning and intense physical activity. Knowing what actions to take if experiencing heat-related illness is essential during extreme heat.
The following outlines those who are most affected by heat-related illness:
• People who work outside, athletes and children.
• Infants, young kids and pets.
• Adults ages 60 and older.
• People without air-conditioned houses, cars and work places.
• People with chronic health conditions.
• People with reduced mobility and limited access to transportation.
• Pregnant, expectant mothers.
Follow these do’s and don’ts in preparing for extreme heat:
DO:
• Drink water
• Take cool showers or baths.
• Use air conditioning, covering windows with drapes or shades.
• Stay in cool, indoor space.
• Check on neighbors and older people.
• Find shade when outdoors and wear loose-fitting, lightweight and light-colored clothing.
• Wear a hat and always remember to apply sunscreen every two hours.
DON’T:
• Don’t choose sugary drinks (soda, juice, energy drinks or alcohol.)
• Don’t use the oven frequently.
• Don’t do high energy activities outdoors.
• Don’t leave pets or children unattended in cars.
Heat exhaustion includes heavy sweating; cold, pale and clammy skin; fast and weak pulse; nausea or vomiting; tiredness or weakness; dizziness; headache or fainting/passing out.
If experiencing heat exhaustion, move to a cool place, loosen clothes and sip water. Put cool, wet cloths on the body or take a cool bath. Seek medical attention right away if throwing up, the symptoms get worse or last longer than an hour.
Heat Stroke includes body temperature of 103 degrees or higher; hot, red, dry or damp skin; fast and strong pulse; headache; dizziness; nausea; confusion and loss of consciousness.
Call 911 right away in the case of heat stroke. Move the person to a cooler place. Use cool cloths or cool bath to lower temperature, but do not give them anything to drink.
For additional information, contact Veterans Memorial Hospital Community and Home Care-Allamakee Public Health at 563-568-5660.
