Heat is one of the leading weather-related killers in the United States, resulting in hundreds of fatalities each year. Take extra caution when heat warnings are issued. Drink plenty of water and avoid overexertion. Be sure to monitor the heat and air quality, particularly if you suffer from any medical conditions that could be aggravated by the excessive temperatures.
| SYMPTOMS | FIRST AID | |
|---|---|---|
| HEAT STROKE / SUN STROKE | Altered mental state Possible headache, confusion, nausea, dizziness, and shallow breathing High body temperature (>106 F) Skin may be hot and dry, or patient may be sweating Rapid pulse Possible loss of consciousness | Heat stroke is a severe medical emergency. Get medical assistance or get the person to a hospital immediately. Delay can be fatal. Move the victim to a cooler, preferably air-conditioned, environment. Reduce body temperature with a water mister and fan, or sponging. Use a fan if heat index temperatures are below the high 90s. DO NOT GIVE FLUIDS. |
| HEAT EXHAUSTION | Heavy sweating Weakness Cool, pale, clammy skin Weak pulse Possible muscle cramps Dizziness / fainting Nausea and vomiting | Move the person to a cooler environment. Remove or loosen clothing. Apply cool, wet cloths. Fan or move victim to air conditioned room. Offer sips of water. If nausea occurs, discontinue water. If vomiting continues, seek immediate medical attention. |
| HEAT CRAMPS | Painful muscle cramps and spasms in legs and abdomen Heavy sweating | Apply firm pressure on cramping muscles or gently massage to relieve the spasm. Give sips of water. If nausea occurs, stop giving water. |
KNOW THE TERMS:
Heat Wave: a prolonged period of excessive heat, often combined with excessive humidity.
Heat Index: A number in degrees Fahrenheit that tells how hot it feels when relative humidity is added to the air temperature.
Excessive Heat Watch: Conditions are favorable for an excessive heat event to meet or exceed local Excessive Heat Warning criteria in the next 24 to 72 hours.
Excessive Heat Warning: Heat Index values are forecast to meet or exceed locally defined warning criteria for at east 2 days (daytime highs = 105-110° F).
Heat Advisory: Heat Index values are forecast to meet locally defined advisory criteria for 1 to 2 days (daytime highs = 100-105°F)
