Extreme Heat

Exposure to extreme heat can be serious.  Heat injuries are very common and usually occur when an individual becomes overheated and dehydrated.

In general, if a heat wave is predicted or happening:

• Slow down and avoid strenuous activity.  If you must be active, be sure it takes place during the coolest part of the day ( 4 am to 7 am )
• Stay indoors if possible.  If air conditioning is not available:
• stay on the lowest level out of the sunlight
• go to a public place that is air conditioned
• use a fan, ( fans don’t cool air but will evaporate sweat, which cools the body )
• shade windows to keep sunlight from entering building
• Wear lightweight light colored clothing which will reflect away some of the sun’s energy
• Drink plenty of water regularly and often, even if you do not feel thirsty
• Avoid drinking alcohol or caffeine which dehydrate the body
• Eat more frequent small meals, that are low in protein ( protein increases metabolic heat )
• Use salt tablets only when prescribed by a physician

There are three categories of heat injuries: Heat Cramps, Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke

Signs of Heat Cramps

• Muscle twitching or spasms
• Muscles feel hard and lumpy
• Nausea and vomiting
• Weakness and fatigue

Treatment of heat cramps

• Get the person to a cooler place and have them rest in a comfortable position
• Lightly stretch the affected muscle and replenish fluids
• Give ½ glass of cool water every 15 minutes

Signs of Heat Exhaustion

• Cool, moist, pale or flushed skin
• Heavy sweating
• Headache
• Nausea
• Dizziness/Occasional fainting
• Vomiting
• Exhaustion
• Body temperature will be near normal
• Rapid breathing

Treatment of heat exhaustion

• Get the person out of the heat and direct sunlight and into a cooler place
• Elevate feet
• Remove or loosen tight clothing
• Apply cool wet cloths, towels or sheets and apply ice under arms and groin area
• If the person is conscious give 2 qt of water or sports drink over 2 to 4 hour period.
• Watch carefully for changes in conditions and seek professional medical attention if no improvement is seen
• Continue fluid replacement for 24 hours

Signs of Heat Stroke

• Hot, red dry skin
• Changes in consciousness
• Rapid, weak pulse
• Rapid shallow breathing
• Body temperature as high as 105 degrees F
• Confusion/Delirium

Treatment of heat stroke

• Help is needed fast… Call 9-1-1
• Move the person from heat and direct sunlight and into a cooler place
• Remove unnecessary clothing
• Quickly cool the body by immersing victim in a cool bath or wrapping them in wet sheets with a fan directed at them
• Watch for signals of breathing problems
•  If the victim is vomiting, changes consciousness or refuses water, do not give them food or water.
• Get professional help as soon as possible

******THE GREATEST PREVENTION AGAINST ANY HEAT INJURY IS TO STAY HYDRATED BY DRINKING PLENTY OF WATER*****