June 29, 2023 – As summer continues, temperatures continue to heat up and families spend extended periods of time outside—especially over the Fourth of July weekend. Don’t let yourself get caught in extreme heat without learning about how to deal with hotter-than-normal temperatures beforehand.
According to the National Weather Service, heat is one of the leading weather-related killers in the United States, causing hundreds of deaths per year. Especially for vulnerable populations, including pregnant women, children and the elderly, extended amounts of time in unusually hot weather can cause several health issues, including heat exhaustion or stroke.
National agencies, including the National Weather Service and the American Red Cross, annually publish a list of tips to stay cool during sweltering conditions. This is not an exhaustive list, and you should follow guidance from a doctor or healthcare professional if you have a health condition that could impact the amount of time you can spend outside.
- Avoid outdoor activity. Reduce or reschedule strenuous outdoor activities until weather is cooler. If spending time in hot weather and/or direct sunlight, wear lightweight, loose fitting, light-colored clothing to reflect sunlight.
- Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water—not ice cold is recommended—even if you don’t feel thirsty, and avoid caffeine. Spend time in air-conditioned spaces if possible, or turn on fans.
- Know how to treat heat-related illnesses. Recognize the symptoms of heat cramps (painful muscle cramps in the legs or abdomen), heat exhaustion (heavy sweating, fatigue, clammy skin, dizziness and/or fainting) and heat stroke (throbbing headache, confusion, red/damp skin and/or fainting). Read more about how to treat each of these serious conditions HERE.
- Look before you lock. Never leave a child, disabled person or pet locked in a car. On an 80-degree day, temperatures inside a locked car can reach 123 degrees in just one hour, causing fatal conditions for anyone inside. If you have a toddler, lock your car at home—kids could wander into the car and suffer injuries or death within a short period of time.
- Keep in touch with loved ones. Check on older, sick or frail people who may have trouble coping with extreme heat. Ensure those without air conditioning have spaces they can go to to remain cool.
For more information, visit the National Weather Service’s website HERE or the American Red Cross’ website HERE. Stay cool!
