| The combination of high temperatures and elevated humidity can quickly become dangerous, especially for children, older adults, individuals with chronic medical conditions, outdoor workers, athletes, and pets.
During periods of extreme heat, your body works harder to cool itself. When it can no longer keep up, heat-related illnesses can occur rapidly and become life-threatening.
β οΈ Watch for signs of heat exhaustion:
β’ Heavy sweating
β’ Weakness or fatigue
β’ Dizziness or fainting
β’ Headache
β’ Nausea or vomiting
β’ Muscle cramps
β’ Cool, pale, clammy skin
β’ Fast, weak pulse
π Signs of heat stroke β a medical emergency:
β’ Body temperature of 103Β°F or higher
β’ Hot, red, dry, or damp skin
β’ Confusion or altered mental status
β’ Slurred speech
β’ Seizures
β’ Loss of consciousness
β’ Rapid, strong pulse
If you suspect someone is experiencing heat stroke, call 9-1-1 immediately and move them to a cooler location while waiting for help.
βοΈ How to stay safe during extreme heat:
π§ Drink plenty of water, even if you donβt feel thirsty.
π Stay in air-conditioned buildings whenever possible.
π Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing.
πΆ Limit outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day (10 AM β 4 PM).
π³ Take frequent breaks in the shade if working outside.
π Never leave children, older adults, or pets unattended in vehicles β temperatures inside can rise to deadly levels within minutes.
π΅ Check on elderly family members, neighbors, and those without air conditioning.
πΎ Ensure pets have access to shade and fresh water at all times.
π₯ Did you know?
* Heat is one of the leading weather-related causes of death in the United States.
* Inside a parked vehicle, temperatures can rise by 20 degrees or more in just 10 minutes, even with windows cracked.
* High humidity makes it harder for sweat to evaporate, reducing your bodyβs ability to cool itself.
The members of Cobb Island Volunteer Fire Department & EMS encourage everyone to take this heat seriously and look out for one another during periods of extreme temperatures.
Stay hydrated, stay cool, and stay safe. πβοΈπ§ |
