A heat wave is a prolonged or severe episode of unusually high temperatures sometimes
accompanied by high humidity. Heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke are all
heat-related illnesses caused by overexposure to heat.
What Actions Should You Take To Be Prepared?
- Never leave children or pets in a parked car.
- Stay indoors during the hottest hours when possible.
- Wear light-weight and light-colored clothing.
- Drink plenty of water, even if youre not thirsty.
- Avoid consuming alcoholic beverages.
- Avoid salt and salt tablets unless specified by a physician.
- Spend more time in air-conditioned places.
- Dont get too much sun.
Greatest Risk of Heat Related Illness
- Infants and children up to 4 years of age.
- People 65 years of age or older.
- People who are overweight.
- People who overexert themselves during work or exercise.
- People who are ill or on certain medications.
Heat Disorders, Symptoms and First Aid
Sunburn
Symptoms Skin redness and pain, possible swelling, blisters, fever, headaches.
First Aid Take a shower, using soap to remove oils that may block pores preventing
the body from cooling naturally. If blisters occur, apply dry, sterile dressings and
get medical attention.
Heat Cramps
Symptoms Painful spasms usually in leg and abdominal muscles. Heavy sweating.
First Aid Firm pressure on cramping muscles or gentle massage to relieve spasms.
Give sips of water. If nausea occurs, discontinue.
Heat Exhaustion
Symptoms Heavy sweating, weakness, cold, pale and clammy skin. Weak pulse. Normal
temperature possible. Fainting and vomiting.
First Aid Get victim to lie down in a cool place. Loosen clothing. Apply cool, wet
cloths. Fan or move victim to air-conditioned place. Give sips of water. If nausea occurs,
discontinue. If vomiting occurs, seek immediate medical attention.
Heat Stroke
Symptoms High body temperature (106+). Hot, dry skin. Rapid, strong pulse.
Possible unconsciousness. Victim will likely not sweat.
First Aid Heat stroke is a severe medical emergency. Call 9-1-1 to get the victim
to a hospital immediately. Delay can be fatal. Move victim to a cooler environment.
Try a cool bath or sponging to reduce body temperature. Use extreme caution. Remove
clothing. Use fans and/or air conditioners. DO NOT GIVE FLUIDS.
Possible heat disorders for people in higher risk groups
- 130°F or higher Heatstroke/sunstroke highly likely with continued exposure.
- 105° - 130°F Sunstroke, heat cramps or heat exhaustion likely, and heatstroke possible with prolonged exposure and/or physical activity.
- 90° - 105°F Sunstroke, heat cramps and heat exhaustion possible with prolonged exposure and/or physical activity.
- 80° - 90°F Fatigue possible with prolonged exposure and/or physical activity.