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Summer Heat Advisory
A Message from Lewis County Public Health
POSTED ON July 6, 2010

Summer is here and we can expect extended periods of high temperatures and humidity.  Elderly people, infants and children, and people with chronic medical conditions are more prone to heat illness.  Below is information and recommended procedures to prevent heat illness during the hot and humid weather which can be expected this summer.

Tips for Keeping Cool:

• Air-conditioning is the number one intervention that can help people avoid heat related illness. Get to a spot that has air-conditioning. Try to keep your home cool by closing windows and shades during the day. Try not to use heat generating items like the oven and over-head lights.

• Dress in light colored, light-weight, loose fitting clothing and use sunscreen when outside to avoid sunburn.

• Drink plenty of fluids. Do not wait until you are thirsty. Do not drink liquids that contain alcohol or large amounts of sugar as these drinks can actually cause you to loose fluid from your body. Ask your doctor how much you should drink if you typically limit your fluid intake due to a medical condition.

• Adjust menus as needed, incorporating items such as cold plates, salads, etc.

• Avoid laying or sitting in direct sunlight.  If outside, sit in shaded areas.

• Use caution when engaging in physical activities and avoid strenuous physical activity as appropriate.

• Do not leave children or pets in the car. Even with the windows cracked open, interior temperatures can rise very quickly putting anyone in the car at risk for a heat related illness and even death.

 

HEAT PROSTRATION

Warning Signals:	Gradual weakness, nausea, anxiety, excess sweating, syncope (fainting).
Appearance and Signs:	Skin is pale, grayish and clammy.
Management:	For syncope: Place head down and administer cool, slightly salty fluids immediately.
Consequence:	May lead to loss of consciousness and/or circulatory failure.

 

HEAT STROKE (SERIOUS EMERGENCY)

Warning Signals:	Headache, weakness and sudden loss of consciousness.
Appearance and Signs:	Hot, red, dry skin, little sweating, very high temperature and hard, rapid pulse.
Management:	Immediately cool skin by wrapping or immersing in cold water or ice. Call 911 or paramedics.

 

HEAT CRAMPS

Warning Signals:	Severe cramps and spasms in the arms, legs and/or abdomen.
Appearance and Signs:	Skin may be hot and dry or cool and clammy depending on the humidity. The muscles feel like hard knots.
Management:	Provide cool fluids and foods containing sodium chloride (table salt).

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