It’s hot! How many times have you heard that lately? The excessively high temperatures and heat indexes have hit us. In the next couple of weeks, temperatures are to reach 109 degrees making it feel like it is 114 degrees. August is coming in hot like a fireball.
Now that the excessively hot days of summer have hit us, it is so important to remember to stay inside in an air conditioned space. If you do not have an air conditioner, go to a public place that does, places like your local library, sit in comfort and read a book. Go have a glass of tea at your favorite restaurant. Anywhere to get some relief from the heat. Check on elderly above 65 years, neighbors, family, and friends. Especially check on those with heart, lung, or kidney conditions, a disability, and living alone.
It is so easy to get into trouble by being out on days where the temperature is over 100 degrees. The most important thing is to stay hydrated, drink a lot of water if you are going to be outside.
Extreme heat can be deadly. It is important to avoid vigorous activity at peak heat hours. Seek medical attention if you or others feel faint, dizzy, or nauseous. Heat exhaustion can happen quickly and if not attended immediately you will be making a trip to the hospital. Heat strokes can kill. Heatstroke is a lifethreatening condition that occurs when the body’s temperature rises too high and cannot be cooled effectively.This can cause severe damage to body organs and can result in death Check on elderly above 65 years, neighbors, family, and friends. Especially check on those with heart, lung, or kidney conditions, a disability, and living alone.
And don’t forget about those beloved pets. Dogs are most at risk for heatstroke during the summer months if exercising in hot and humid weather, if left outside without adequate shade and water, and if they are left alone in a car. Never ever leave a child or a dog in a car, where the temperature increases rapidly.