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​​​Extreme Heat

Extreme heat is a period of heat and humidity with temperatures higher than 90 degrees for at least two to three days. It is dangerous for everyone, and can be especially tough on young children, older adults, and pets. 

Did you know? Among all weather-related hazards, extreme heat is responsible for the most annual deaths. 


​Stay ​​Safe​​

    • Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun.
    • Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
    • Spend time in air-conditioned places. No air conditioning? Find a cooling center.​ 
    • NEVER leave anyone — pets or people  — in a parked car.
    • Take cool showers or baths.
    • Avoid high-energy activities or working outdoors during midday heat, if possible.
    • Watch for heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.
    • Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothing.
    • Check on family, friends, and neighbors.
    • Keep pets indoors as much as possible, and provide ample access to water.
    • Monitor local radio and TV for the latest information.​

​Signs of Heat Illness

Heat Cramps

Muscular pains and spasms due to heavy exertion. Although the least severe of heat illnesses, it’s important to take heat cramps seriously because they often are the first signal that the body is having difficulty with the heat.

WHAT TO DO
      • Get to a cooler location.
      • ​Remove excess clothing.
      • Drink cool sports drinks.
      • Avoid caffeine and alcohol.

WHEN TO SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION
  • ​If cramps don't subside in an hour.
  • The person has heart problems.
  • The person is on a low-sodium diet.

Heat Ex​haustion
Typical when exercising heavily or working in a hot, humid place where bodily fluids are lost through heavy sweating. If not treated, the symptoms will worsen.
SYMPTOMS
  • Heavy sweating
  • Paleness
  • Muscle cramps
  • Tiredness
  • Weakness
  • Dizziness
  • Headaches
  • Nausea
  • Fainting
WHAT TO DO
  • Move to an air-conditioned place and lie down.
  • Loosen/remove clothing.
  • Get into a cool shower or bath, or apply cool, wet cloths.
  • Sip water or cool sports drinks. Discontinue if nauseated.
  • Avoid caffeine and alcohol.
WHEN TO SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION
  • You don't see improvement.
  • Person is unable to take fluids​.
  • Vomiting occurs.
  • Any symptoms are severe.

​Heat Stroke

This is a life-threatening condition where a person's temperature control system, which produces sweating to cool the body, stops working. Body temperature can rise so quickly that it can cause brain damage and even death.

SYMPTOMS
  • Body temperature above 103 degrees
  • Hot, dry, red skin
  • Racing heart
  • Rapid breathing
  • Headache
  • Confusion
  • Dizziness
  • Unconsciousness
WHAT TO DO
  • Call 911 immediately. Delay can be fatal.
  • Move person to a cooler location.
  • Remove excess clothes.
  • Cool with water and ice.