Heat Related Safety Tips

(KNSI) – With temps in the 90s predicted all week this week, the National Weather Service has some tips to beat the heat for those working, exercising, or playing outside.

If you’re going to be outside for any length of time, stop and make sure you’re getting enough fluid, take a break, sit in the shade for a little while, and remember if you’re walking your dog, not to do it in the hottest part of the day. He says the sidewalk can heat up to well over 100 degrees and hurt your dog’s paws.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there is an average of 702 heat-related deaths in the U.S. each year, and they say it’s important to know the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke.

According to CentraCare, heatstroke is a medical emergency, and it is important to call 911 or get the person to a hospital immediately if you or someone you know experiences nausea, vomiting, weakness, headache, difficulty breathing, disorientation, seizures, absence of sweating and muscle cramps while outside.

The National Weather Service says signs of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, weakness or tiredness, cool, pale, clammy skin, fast, weak pulse, muscle cramps, dizziness, nausea or vomiting, headache, and fainting. They say to move the person to a cooler environment, preferably a well air conditioned room. Loosen clothing. Apply cool, wet cloths or have the person sit in a cool bath. Offer sips of water. If the person vomits more than once, call 911.

For more heat safety tips and resources, click here.

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