State health department encourages heat safety
In Franklin County temperatures are topping out in the high-80s and mid-90s – and it can feel even hotter, with rising humidity levels. The official first day of autumn is still several weeks away, and in the Deep South, it is certain the high temperatures will continue well into the next season.
With that in mind, the Alabama Department of Public Health is advising the public to be alert to the warning signs of heat-related illnesses and adjust their activities accordingly.
Heat-related illnesses occur when the body’s temperature control system is overloaded, so people are urged to be alert to the warnings that may signal help is needed.
Heat stroke, sometimes called sunstroke, is the most serious heat-related illness. It occurs when the body becomes unable to control its temperature. The body’s temperature rises rapidly, the sweating mechanism fails, and the body is unable to cool down. Body temperature may rise to 106 degrees or higher within 10-15 minutes. Heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability if emergency treatment is not provided.
People should drink plenty of water, stay in an air-conditioned room and keep out of the sun. The public should also check on elderly relatives, neighbors and friends, and ensure pets have plenty of water to drink and shade to cool off.
“Everyone needs to adjust their activities and be alert to warnings that signal help is needed,” an ADPH press release warns.
Warning signs of heat stroke vary, but include the following:
· An extremely high body temperature (above 103 degrees)
· Red, hot and dry skin with no sweating
· Rapid, strong pulse
· Throbbing headache
· Dizziness
· Nausea
· Confusion
· Unconsciousness
If heat stroke is suspected, immediately call 9-1-1. First aid recommendations are to get the person to a shady area, cool rapidly in a tub of cool water, place in a cool shower, spray with cool water from a garden hose, splash with cool water, or, if the humidity is low, place in a cool, wet sheet and fan vigorously. Monitor body temperature and continue cooling efforts until the person’s body temperature drops to 101-102 degrees. If emergency medical personnel are delayed, call a hospital emergency room for further instructions.
“Heat stroke is a life-threatening emergency,” said ADPH chief medical officer Dr. Mary McIntyre. “A person with heat stroke is likely to be unconscious or unresponsive, so he or she cannot safely consume any liquids. Under no circumstance should you give any alcohol to a person with heat stroke or any heat-related illness.”
Follow these preventive measures to avoid heat-related illnesses:
· Drink more fluids, and avoid beverages containing alcohol or caffeine.
· When temperatures are extreme, stay indoors, ideally in an air-conditioned place.
· Take a cool shower or bath, and reduce or eliminate strenuous activities during the hottest times of the day.
· For those persons who work outside, take frequent breaks to cool off and drink lots of water and electrolyte replacement beverages to replace lost fluids.
· Protect yourself from the sun with a wide-brimmed hat, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing and use of a sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher.
· Never leave pets or people in a parked vehicle.
Individuals with heart problems, poor circulation, diabetes, a previous stroke or obesity are at greater risk of becoming sick in hot weather. The risk of heat-related illness might also increase among people using medications for high blood pressure, nervousness or depression.
