This weekend is supposed to be a scorcher; possibly triple digits. After all that rain, now, the blistering heat. There are a lot of activities that can take us outside for extended periods of time like soccer, lawn work, softball, gardening, swim class, roofing jobs, hiking, painting outdoors, etc.
If you are going to be exposed to this oppressive heat there are some things to be aware of to prevent and warn you of signs of danger.
Heat exhaustion results from too much vigorous activities and a lack of proper hydration in intense heat. The body’s temperature may rise up to 104 degrees.
Heat stroke, also known as sun stroke, is when your body temperature becomes elevated to 105 degrees or greater because the body cannot cool itself quickly enough. Now the brain and your organs start to overheat. It is a serious and life-threatening issue.
Last year the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reported that 155 people died as a result of extreme heat.
Signs of Heat Exhaustion:
- Weakness
- Headache
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Muscle Cramps
Signs of Heat Stroke:
- Fast Heart Rate or Rapid Pulse
- Confusion, Hallucinations, Disorientation
- Acting Strangely
- Seizure or Convulsions
- Coma
- Difficulty Breathing
- Red and Hot Skin
- No Sweating or Profuse Sweating
- Restlessness or Anxiety
- Elevated Body Temperature
- Unconsciousness
- Vomiting or diarrhea
If you experience or witness someone having any of these symptoms, call 911, and try to cool the body ASAP. Also, check on loved ones that might need assistance. Stay cool, keep hydrated and don’t forget your pets. Leave them plenty of water and definitely don’t leave them in the car. It takes only minutes to seriously harm them.
Hope you can find a nice way to stay cool this summer.
