a closed vehicle to reach temperatures in excess of 140 degrees. Stay cool. ⢠Seek a cool public place ... about publi
Stay cool • Seek a cool public place, such as a library or mall, if you don’t have air conditioning or fans.
Staying safe in extreme heat
• Wear loose fitting, lightweight, natural fiber clothing. • Reduce solar warming of your home by closing shades, blinds, drapes and curtains. • Use ceiling and portable fans to circulate air, but don’t sit directly in front of a fan in extreme heat. • Keep your air conditioner clean and free from debris. Make sure the filter is clean. • Take a shower or bath or place ice or cool water on your pulse points (arteries in your wrist and neck). • Use a microwave if you can. It uses less electricity and creates less heat than your oven. • Do laundry, wash dishes and mop floors in late evening or early morning to reduce discomfort caused by humidity.
Stay informed • Check local news for extreme heat alerts and safety tips.
Extreme heat is a weather designation for when summer temperatures go above 90° and/or humidity is significantly higher than average. Who’s most vulnerable? People over age 65, infants and children and those with a chronic medical condition are most endangered by extreme heat. Outdoor workers and athletes are also at risk. Pets suffer from heat, too. Make sure they have adequate shade and water. Check on those you know are at risk.
What you can do Stay safe • Drink plenty of water.
• Call United Way 2-1-1 for assistance or information about public cooling centers.
Heat illness warning signs • Heat cramps: Muscular pains and spasms that occur in the legs or abdomen of an otherwise strong, healthy person. An early danger sign. Move to a cool location. • Heat exhaustion: Cool, moist, pale or flushed skin. Headache. Heavy sweating. Nausea and/or dizziness. Weakness. Fatigue. Move to a cool location. May require medical assistance. • Sun/heat stroke: Occurs when the body cannot regulate its own temperature. Skin may be hot, red, dry or moist. High body temperature. Change in consciousness that may appear to be a heart attack. Vomiting. This is a life-threatening condition. Move the person to a cool location and call 9-1-1.
• Avoid strenuous activity. • Replace electrolytes (salt and minerals) lost through perspiration by drinking a sport drink. But don’t overdo it - drink only one or two a day. • Never leave children or pets unattended in enclosed vehicles. It takes only a few minutes for a closed vehicle to reach temperatures in excess of 140 degrees.
