During extreme heat, your body’s way of cooling off becomes challenged. Be cognizant of heat stroke and heat exhaustion symptoms. A heat cramp is usually the first symptom leading up to heat related illnesses.

Heat exhaustion:

Symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness or tiredness, cool, pale, clammy skin; fast weak pulse, muscle cramps, dizziness, nausea, headache and fainting or loss of. If this occurs, move the person to a cooler environment and apply cool, wet cloths.

Heat stroke:

Symptoms include throbbing headache, confusion, nausea, dizziness, body temperature above 103, damp skin, rapid and strong pulse; and fainting. If this occurs, call 911 immediately. Move the person to cooler environment and use cool cloths to reduce body temperature. Do not give fluids.

Hydration and Safety Tips:

• Drink plenty of fluids. An average person needs to drink ¾ of a gallon of water daily. Drink lots of water even if you aren’t thirsty.
• Avoid sugary, caffeinated, and alcoholic beverages during extreme heat.
• Stay in an air-conditioned place as long as possible and visit a cooling center if your house does not have air conditioning.
• Limit outdoor activity. If you must work outdoors, limit it to early morning or later at night.
• Wear loose light-colored clothing.
• Take a cool shower or bath to cool off.
• Check on family, friends, and neighbors. Infants, the elderly and pregnant women are most at risk for heat related illnesses.
• Eat light. Choose easy to digest foods such as fruits and salads and pack them in a cooler. Dairy and meats can easily spoil in hot weather.
• Never leave children, older adults or pets alone in a car.