Extreme Heat Safety

Heat Stress Factors:

High temperature and humidity, direct sun or heat, physical exertion and some medicines which lead to heat stress on the body.

Symptoms

Heat Exhaustion:

• Headaches, dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting.
• Weakness and moist skin.
• Mood changes such as irritability or confusion.
• Upset stomach or vomiting.

Treatment:

• Call 911 for medical attention.
• Move victim to a cool place.
• Loosen clothing and apply cool, wet cloths to the neck, face and arms.
• Give the victim water only if they are conscious.

Heat Stroke:

• Dry, hot skin with no sweating.
• Mental confusion or losing consciousness.
• Seizures or convulsions.

Treatment:

• Call 911 for medical attention.
• Bring the victim to a cool place.
• Remove victim’s clothes and cool his or her body with wet sheets and by fanning the victim.
• Keep the victim lying down and as cool as possible.
• Do NOT give the victim any fluids.

Tips for Beating the Heat

• If possible stay out of the sun. While in the sun where sunscreen (minimum of SPF15) and a hat to protect your face and head. Also wear lightweight, light colored, loose fitting clothing.
• Drink lots of fluids particularly water even if you don’t feel thirsty. Your body needs water to keep cool.
• Avoid beverages containing alcohol or caffeine always drink as much water or sport drinks as possible.
• Eat small, frequent meals. Avoid high-protein foods.
• Try to avoid performing strenuous activity during the sun’s peak hours which are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. If you must perform strenuous activities try to perform them in the early morning hours which are the coolest hours of the day.
• If you don’t have air conditioning consider going to public places such as malls or libraries to help keep cool.
• Never leave children, pets, or those who need special care in parked cars in intense summer heat.
• Make an effort to check on your neighbors, especially if they are elderly have young children or have special needs.
• Stay on the lowest floor of your residence out of the sunshine if air conditioning is not available. Block the sun out of your residence by installing window shades or awnings.
• If you don’t have air-conditioning make sure to keep your windows open so that fresh air may circulate through your home.