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EXTREME HIGH TEMPERATURES COULD BE DANGEROUS
Take
Precautions When Temperatures Are High
The
National Weather Service often predicts extreme temperatures during the
summer months. Whether you are working or playing this weekend, drink plenty
of water, use sunscreen and avoid outdoor activities in the hottest part of
the day. Remember,
Too Much Heat Can Cause . . .
Heat Exhaustion
Symptoms:
Mild form of shock marked by heavy
sweating, weakness, headache, weak pulse, dizziness, exhaustion, fainting,
nausea or vomiting, and cold, clammy skin. But the body temperature will seem
normal.
Treatment:
Call 911 for medical attention. If heat
exhaustion is not treated, it can worsen and lead to heat stroke.
Move the victim to a cool place.
Loosen clothing and apply cool, wet cloths to
the neck, face and arms.
If the victim is conscious, have him or her
drink water slowly, unless nausea occurs. Give the victim half a glass of
water every 15 minutes.
Under no circumstances should an unconscious
person be given anything to drink.
Watch carefully for changes in the victim’s
condition.
Heat Stroke (Sunstroke)
Symptoms:
The hallmark of heat stroke is
mental status change – headache, dizziness, confusion or unconsciousness.
Body temperature can be so high that brain damage or death may occur rapidly
if the victim does not receive immediate medical attention.
Treatment:
Call 911 immediately for medical help.
Bring the victim to a cool place.
Remove the victim’s clothes and cool his or her
body by wrapping it in wet sheets and fanning it.
Watch for signs of breathing problems.
Keep the victim lying down and as cool as
possible.
Do NOT give the victim any fluids.
What is a “Heat Emergency”?
What is it that makes a very hot
day a “heat emergency?” It is much more than just a high temperature. The
National Weather Service has studied weather conditions in many areas of the
country and has developed a formula that will tell when a potentially life
threatening heat emergency will take place.
Here are the definitions you
should know:
HEAT ADVISORY: When the temperature is forecast
to be unusually hot but not life-threatening.
HEAT WATCH: When a life-threatening heat
emergency may occur in the next 24-48 hours.
HEAT WARNING: When a life-threatening
emergency exists or is imminent.
Extreme Heat Tips
Keep an eye on those at risk – Check on
elderly neighbors, homeless, or mentally ill who may need your help when the
weather is dangerously warm.
Cars and heat don’t mix – NEVER leave
children, pets or people needing special care in parked cars when the
temperature is high.
Remember your pets – Pets also need
water, shade, and a cool place to rest.
Drink plenty of water – Your body needs
water to keep cool. Avoid beverages containing alcohol or caffeine.
Cover your head – When you have
to be outside in the sun, make sure you and your small children have your
heads protected.
Keep fresh air circulating – If you are
not in a building with air conditioning, keep some windows or doors open
slightly so fresh air can come in.
Baths and showers are good – Cool down
with frequent cool baths or showers, but do not take a shower immediately
after becoming overheated. You may cool down too quickly and become ill or dizzy.
When working outside – If you must work
outside – take precautions - wear proper clothing, take frequent breaks, try
and work during the very early morning hours, cover your head, drink plenty
of water and slap on sunscreen that is SPF 15 or higher.
Stay cool indoors – Stay inside and, if
at all possible, in an air-conditioned place. If your home does not have air
conditioning, go to the shopping mall or public library - even a few hours
spent in air conditioning can help your body stay cooler when you go back
into the heat.
From the Communications Director, Maricopa County
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