Heat Preparedness

Some of our planet's hottest years have been in recent history and

now extreme heat events are happening more frequently.

HOW TO PREPARE FOR EXTREME HEAT

Hydrate by drinking cool water. Drink a beverage with

electrolytes during exercise or physical exertion. Avoid drinking

alcohol, as alcohol is dehydrating.

Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 15, 30

minutes prior to going in the sun. Reapply after swimming/

sweating. Wear a hat to protect your scalp.

Protect your eyes with UV blocking sunglasses.
Take breaks if working outside and try to avoid being in the

sun when the sun angle is the strongest (10am-4pm).

Wear light-weight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing
Bring pets indoors to a cooler environment, preferably with

air-conditioning.

Know your risk. People are high risk of heat-related illnesses

include: Elderly, young children, pregnant women, and people

who have respiratory, heart or other illnesses.

RECOGNIZE HEAT-RELATED ILLNESSES

HEAT CRAMPS: Symptoms include muscle spasms or pains.
First aid: Stop activity and sit in a cool, quiet place. Drink water, juice or a sports drink. Seek medical attention if heat cramps do not subside within one hour.

HEAT RASH: Symptoms may include clusters of red pimples or small blisters. The rash is most likely on the neck, upper chest, under breasts, groin and in elbow creases.

First Aid: Seek a cool, less humid environment, such as indoors with air conditioning. Apply dusting powder to the area if available.

HEAT EXHAUSTION: Symptoms include heavy sweating, muscle cramps, clammy/pale skin, weakness, rapid pulse, headache, nausea or vomiting, and/or dizziness/fainting.
First aid: Try to cool the victim by offering water or juice and bring the victim into air conditioning if possible. Help the victim lie down and elevate feet. Loosen any tight clothing. A cold washcloth/ice pack and rest may also help. Seek medical help if vomiting occurs or symptoms worsen.

HEAT STROKE: Symptoms include high fever (103°F or greater), hot red dry skin, rapid pulse, dizziness, throbbing headache, confusion, nausea, and/or possible seizure or unconsciousness.

First aid: The person is in DANGER. CALL 911 IMMEDIATELY. While waiting for EMS, help move victim to a cool, shady area. Cool the person by applying cool water to the skin and fan the person to help lower the body temperature. Monitor the victim's body temperature and continue cooling measures until either EMS arrives or the temperature drops below 102°F.

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