Heat health tips
The National Weather Service offers these tips to keep healthy during extreme heat.
Posted — UpdatedGeneral heat safety tips
Health dangers
As the heat index rises, watch out for these health problems.
130 degrees or higher: Heatstroke and/or sunstroke are highly likely with continued exposure.
105-130 degrees: Sunstroke, heat cramps or heat exhaustion are likely, and heatstroke is possible with prolonged exposure or physical activity.
90-105 degrees: Sunstroke, heat cramps and heat exhaustion are possible with prolonged exposure or physical activity.
80-90 degrees: Fatigue is possible with prolonged exposure or physical activity.
Symptoms & first aid for heat-related disorders
SYMPTOMS
- Redness and pain
- In severe cases, swelling of skin, blisters, fever and headaches
FIRST AID: Apply ointments for mild cases when blisters appear but do not break. If blisters break, apply dry sterile dressing. Serious, extensive should be seen by a physician.
SYMPTOMS
- Painful spasms, usually in muscles of legs and abdomen possible
- Heavy sweating
FIRST AID: Place firm pressure on cramping muscles or gently massage them to relieve spasms. Give the victim sips of water, but stop if the victim feels nauseous.
SYMPTOMS
- Heavy sweating
- Wakness
- Skin cold, pale and clammy
- Pulse thready
- Normal temperature possible
- Fainting and vomiting
FIRST AID: Get the victim out of the sun. Lay them down and loosen their clothing. Apply cool, wet cloths. Fan or move the victim to air conditioning. Give the victim sips of water but stop if the victim feels nauseous. If vomiting continues, seek immediate medical attention.
SYMPTOMS
- High body temperature (106 degrees or higher)
- Hot, dry skin
- Rapid, strong pulse
- Possible unconsciousness
FIRST AID: Heat stroke is a severe medical emergency. Summon emergency medical assistance or get the victim to a hospital immediately. Delay can be fatal.
Move the victim to a cooler environment. Reduce body temperature with cold bath or sponging. Use extreme caution. Remove clothing, use fans and air conditioners. If temperature rises again, repeat process. Do not give fluids. People on salt-restrictive diets should consult a physician before increasing their salt intake.
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