With temperatures rising in New York, Chicago and elsewhere, many are feeling the heat as well. Exposure to prolonged high temperatures can cause various heat-related illnesses, ranging from mild cramps to heat exhaustion or death. The elderly are most at risk. Still, all heat-related deaths and illnesses are preventable.
In hot weather, people should take the following precautions:
- Reduce the level of physical activity
- Only do strenuous outdoor activities at cooler times of the day; avoid the hours of 11AM to 3PM.
- Drink additional water
- Wear lightweight and light-colored clothing
- Spend more time indoors, preferably with an air-conditioner
Parents should never leave young children in parked cars. Relatives and neighbors of people at risk for heat-related illness, such as the elderly or disabled, should check on them frequently. Watch out for trouble signs, including intense thirst, heavy sweating, weakness, paleness, nausea and headaches. Seek help immediately if you notice any of these symptoms. If the person has fallen or fainted, move them to a cooler location, and sprinkle lukewarm water on the skin to encourage evaporation.
While many heat-related illnesses can be treated if caught early, preventing them from ever occurring only takes a bit of planning and foresight.
