An extreme heat event is a series of hot days, much hotter than average. Extreme heat is deadly and kills more people than any other weather event. Climate change is making extreme heat events more frequent, more severe, and last longer. Bristow has seen heat index values of up to 120 degrees so far this summer, and more yet to come with July and August normally producing the highest temperatures. One can take action to prepare to help prevent a heat related illness. Drink plenty of fluids, water is the best. In extreme temperatures, it is recommended to drink water every 15 minutes. Replace salt and minerals with snacks or a sports drink. Wear lightweight, loose clothing and take cool showers or baths. Limit your outdoor activities. If you must work outdoors, schedule tasks earlier or late in the day. Check on your friends, family, and neighbors, especially the elderly and make sure your fur babies are safe with plenty of fresh water. If at all possible, on very hot days, bing them inside. The heat affects animals just like humans.
Act fast if you notice someone with symptoms of any heat related illness. Anyone can develop heat illness; but, people at greater risk are:
• Older adults
• Infants, children and pregnant women
• People with medical conditions • Outdoor workers During heat waves people are susceptible to three heat-related conditions. Here’s how to recognize and respond to them.
Heat Cramps
• Heat Cramps are muscle spasms caused by a large loss of salt and water in the body.
What to look for:
• Heavy sweating with muscle pain or spasms What to do:
• Move to a cool place.
• Drink water or a sports drink
• Get medical help right away if:
• Cramps last longer than one hour
• Person affected by the heat has heart problems
Heat Exhaustion
Heat Exhaustion is severe and may require emergency medical treatment.
See Heat, Page Three What to look for:
• Heavy sweating
• Cold, pale and clammy skin
• Fast, weak pulse
• Nausea or vomiting
• Muscle cramps
• Tiredness or weakness
• Dizziness-Headache-Passing out
What to do:
• Move to a cool place
• Loosen tight clothing
• Cool the body using wet cloths, misting, fanning, or a cool bath
• Sip water slowly
• Get medical help right away if:
• Vomiting occurs
• Symptoms last longer than one hour or get worse • Confusion develops
Heat Stroke
Heat Stroke is deadly and requires emergency medical treatment.
What to look for:
• High body temperature
(104°F or higher)
• Hot, red, dry or damp skin
• Fast, strong pulse
• Headache-Dizziness
• Nausea-Confusion-Passing out
What to do:
• Call 911 right away, then:
• Move to a cool place
• Cool the body using wet cloths, misting, fanning, or a cool bath
• Do NOT give the person anything to drink