Preventing Heat-Related Illness
Be Careful - Summer Heat & Humidity Can Affect Your Health!
Hot weather can cause serious health problems. Be aware of the dangers and know what can be done to lower the risks for heat-related illness.
Persons Most at Risk
- The very young, the elderly and those who work or play outdoors.
Symptoms
- Heatstroke may result in shivering, disorientation, irritability, convulsions, and coma. Call 911 immediately!
- Heat exhaustion causes nausea, faintness and extreme weakness. For treatment, have the victim rest in a cool or shaded area and drink liquids. Then call 911.
Staying Healthy
- Drink plenty of water and fruit juices. Avoid alcohol.
- Wear lightweight and light-colored clothing.
- Stay in shaded areas.
- Never leave young children or pets unattended in a car.
- Check often on elderly friends.
- Provide plenty of fluids to nursing babies and toddlers.
- Visit an air-conditioned mall or movie theater.
- Visit a local Cooling Center, if available.
If you work outside, take breaks or change your schedule to avoid the hottest part of the day!
Links
For more information about heat-related illness, go to: