Why discuss heat as a preparedness or disaster issue? Because heat kills people every year. Approximately 175 people die every year from extreme heat. It affects mostly the elderly, the very young and people who are ill or overweight. Know the effects of heat and solar radiation on the body so that you don't succumb to the effects of an extreme heat wave.
HEATWAVE TERMS:
Heat Wave - A prolonged period of excessive heat, usually combined with extreme humidity. The National Weather Service alerts the public during these periods in anticipation of increased illness.
Heat Index - How the temperature really feels when you add relative humidity to the air temperature. Full sun exposure can increase the heat index as much as 15 degrees.
Heat Cramps - These are muscular pains and spasms due to heavy exertion in the heat. They are the first sign that you're having trouble in the heat.
Heat Exhaustion - When you work, exercise or play in the hot, humid air, bodliy fluids are lost through sweat. As blood flow increases to the skin, it decreases to the organs and results in a mild form of shock. Body temperature will continue to rise and the next threat is heat stroke. Signs of heat exhaustion are cool, moist, pale or flushed skin, headache, sweating profusley, dizzieness or nausea, vomiting and exhaustion. Body temperature may still be normal at this point but will likely be rising.
Heat Stroke - Heat stroke can cause death. Heat stroke occurs when the body's thermostat, which causes sweating, stops working. Brain damage and death can occur if the body isn't cooled quickly. Sun stroke is another term for heat stroke. Signs of heat stroke are hot, red skin, loss of conciousness, rapid, weak pulse and shallow breathing. The skin will be dry as sweating has discontinued and the vicitims temperature will be very high.
HOW TO TREAT FOR THESE EMERGENCIES
Heat Cramps - Move victim to a cooler location, preferably indoors into air conditioning and have them rest. Have them lightly stretch the muscles to avoid further cramping. Give a half-glass of cool water every 15 minutes. Give water only as drinks with caffeine or alcohol can cause further dehydration.
Heat Exhaustion - Again, move the vicitim to a cooler place and have them rest. Loosen or remove tight clothing and apply cool, wet cloths like towels or sheets. Give them a half-glass of water every 15 minutes if they are concious. Make sure they drink slowly.
Heat Stroke - This is a life or death emergency requiring immediate care. Your first prioroty is to call 911 or your local emergency number. Move the vicitim to a cooler location and quickly cool the body by immersing them in a cool bath or wrapping in wet sheets and fanning the person. Watch for breathing problems, vomiting or unconsiousness. Do not give anything to eat or drink.
PREPARING FOR EXTREME HEAT
Develop a Family Disaster Plan. Before summer heat is expected, make sure you add additional water and supplies like fans, etc. Learn the risks associated with prolonged heat exposure and make sure you know what to do in an emergency.
If your home does not have air-conditiong, identify a place where you and your family can go during a heat crisis. Most deaths happen to people in unair-conditioned locations. Plan to go to the mall and walk around or a local church, etc. Plan your day so that you're working the hardest in the early morning and early evening out of the major heat of the day.
Even the healthiest people can be overcome quickly by the heat and symptoms of dehydration and heat exhaustion are easily confused with other illnesses. Medication or medical conditions can cause the effects of heat to be more pronounced and serious. Plan to check on friends and family, especially the elderly if they live in areas without air conditioining. Wear light-weight, light-colored clothing to reflect the suns rays if you must be outdoors.
During an extreme heat period, avoid excessive sun exposure. Sunburn can slow the bodies ability to cool itself and will heat the inner core causing further dehydration.
Avoid extreme temperature changes. A cold shower after coming in from the heat can cause shock and even hypothermia, especially in the elderly or infants. Stay indoors as much as possible during the heat of the day. Even in the warmest weather, staying out of the sun is safer than long periods outdoors.
Drink plenty of fluids regularly, even if you don't feel thirsty. Dehydration can come on very quickly and is usually unnoticed until it is severe. Injury and death can occur, especially to those with heart, kidney or liver disease.
If you must be outdoors for work ot altheletics, take frequent breaks and stay hydrated. Use the buddy system and keep an eye on each other. Dehydration and the effects of heat can cause poor judgement and confusion.
Drink water ONLY! Caffeine and alcohol can cause further dehydration. Sports drinks can aid in keeping the electrolytes in your body balanced but nothing is better for you than pure water. Eat small, snack size meals more often since digestion can increase you body temperature. Avoid overeating and foods high in protein like meat and nuts which increase metabolic heat. Avoid salt because it causes the body to retain fluids and affects the sweat glands of the body, causing swelling.
Never leave children or pets in closed vehicles. In recent years, this has grown into a major problem. Be aware of where your children are so that you don't forget them. Inside vehicle temperatures can reach 140 degrees and higher in minutes. Death can occur in as little as 15 minutes.
Awareness and precaution are the best measures to prevent problems in extreme heat.
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