With temperatures and humidity levels soaring over the next few days, public health is reminding residents to watch out for heat-related illness.
Heat related illness can affect the elderly, very young, people with chronic illnesses, and even healthy people if they’re doing strenuous activities and aren’t taking precautions.
Heat strokes are a medical emergency. Call 911 immediately if you are caring for someone who has a high body temperature, is unconscious, confused or has stopped sweating.
Officials are reminding everyone never to leave people or pets alone in a parked car, and check in on friends and family members to make sure they’re keeping cool.
Ways to help prevent heat-related illness:
- Drink plenty of fluids, especially water.
- Never leave anyone or pets in a parked car.
- Seek cooler or air conditioned spaces.
- If you are taking medication or have a health condition, ask your health care provider or pharmacist if heat increases your health risk. Be sure to follow their recommendations.
- Check on elderly family members and neighbors daily to make sure they are keeping cool.
- Wear light-weight, loose fitting clothing.
- Take cool showers or baths, or use cool, wet towels on your face, neck or arms.
- The use of a fan alone may not provide enough relief from the heat
- Avoid strenuous activities between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun is at its hottest.
- Avoid going out in the sun, if possible. If you are outdoors, wear sunscreen.
- Avoid heavy meals and using your oven.
- Keep curtains closed to block sun during the day.