Remember To Take Precautions During Hot Weather Conditions

It is the start of July, and area residents know that usually means extremely hot weather.

The weather forecast calls for high temperatures to sit above 90 degrees throughout the weekend.

With that in mind, the Roosevelt County Health Department provides these reminders of precautions to take during hot weather.

Learn to recognize the signs of heat illness.

What to Do During Extreme Heat Here are tips for staying safe during an extreme heat event:

• Never leave a child, adult or animal alone inside a vehicle on a warm day.

• Find places with air conditioning.

• Libraries, shopping malls and community centers can provide a cool place to take a break from the heat.

• If you’re outside, find shade. Wear a hat wide enough to protect your face.

• Wear loose, lightweight, light colored clothing.

• Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. If you or someone you care for is on a special diet, ask a doctor what would be best.

• Do not use electric fans when the temperature outside is more than 95 degrees. You could increase the risk of heat-related illness. Fans create air flow and a false sense of comfort, but do not reduce body temperature.

• Avoid high-energy activities.

• Check yourself, family members, and neighbors for signs of

heat-related illness.

Recognize, Respond to Heat-Related Illness

Know the signs and ways to treat heat-related illness.

Heat Cramps

• Signs: Muscle pains or spasms in the stomach, arms, or legs.

• Actions: Go to a cooler location. Remove excess clothing. Take sips of cool sports drinks with salt and sugar. Get medical help if cramps last more than an hour.

Heat Exhaustion

• Signs: Heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea or vomiting, and fainting.

• Actions: Go to an air-conditioned place and lie down. Loosen or remove clothing. Take a cool bath. Take sips of cool sports drinks with salt and sugar. Get medical help if symptoms get worse or last more than an hour.

Heat Stroke

• Signs: Extremely high body temperature (above 103 degrees) indicated by an oral thermometer; red, hot, and dry skin with no sweat; rapid, strong pulse; dizziness; confusion; and unconsciousness.

• Actions: Call 9-1-1 or get the person to a hospital immediately. Cool down with whatever methods are available until medical help arrives.