Understanding the Dangers of Extreme Heat

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Extreme Heat

Why It’s Dangerous

Extreme heat increases the risk for serious health issues, including heat exhaustion and heatstroke, which can be fatal if not treated promptly. It’s especially dangerous for vulnerable populations like the elderly, young children, pregnant women, and those with chronic health conditions. High temperatures put a strain on the cardiovascular system, making the heart work harder to cool the body. 

Signs of Heat-Related Illness

It’s crucial to know the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke.

  • Heatstroke occurs when the body can not regulate its temperature. The body temperature can rise up to 106°F or higher within 10-15 minutes. This condition can be fatal if treatment is not received. 
    • Symptoms: confusion, slurred speech, loss of consciousness, hot dry skin or profuse sweating, seizures, very high body temperature
  • Heat Exhaustion occurs as a result of excessive loss of water and salt. This can happen through excessive sweating. 
    • Symptoms: headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness, irritability, thirst, heavy sweating, elevated body temperature, lack of urination

Find out more about other heat related illness or information for first aid on the CDC website here: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/heat-stress/about/illnesses.html 

Tips for Staying Safe in the Heat

  • Stay Cool: Stay indoors as much as possible. The CDC recommends using fans indoors if indoor temperatures are less than 90°F as temperatures higher than means a fan may actually increase body temperature. The dry air may dehydrate you faster. If you need access to air conditioning, you can find a location with air conditioning by calling 2-1-1. 
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. Avoid sugary drinks, alcohol, and caffeine, as they can lead to dehydration. Urine should be light yellow or clear as a sign you are drinking enough water. 
  • Check Air Quality Levels: Try using websites like the Air Quality Portal page run by the State Climate Office of North Carolina at NC State University and the North aCarolina Division of Air Quality to select your county and check the air quality level of your area. Use this information to plan your activities for your week.
  • Wear Appropriate Clothing: Opt for lightweight, light-colored, and loose-fitting clothing to help your body regulate its temperature.
  • Limit Outdoor Activities: If you must be outdoors, try to schedule outdoor activities during the coolest parts of the day (ex: early morning). Also be sure to take regular breaks in the shade. 
  • Check on Others: Make sure to check on elderly relatives, friends, and neighbors who may be more susceptible to heat-related illnesses.
  • Never Leave Children or Pets in Cars: The temperature inside a parked car can rise rapidly to dangerous levels, even with windows cracked open. Every year children and pets left in parked vehicles die from hyperthermia. 

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