Extreme Heat, Humidity, Pose Health Risks

Fayette County Health Department is warning residents to be extremely cautious during periods of high heat by curtailing outdoor physical activity as much as possible and by taking precautionary measures.

This period of high heat will make heat-related illnesses a very real and dangerous threat especially for those living in un-air conditioned homes or apartments.

Heat can be deadly. The Health Department wants to stress the importance of taking in enough fluids, limiting the amount of time spent outdoors and watching out for your neighbors and relatives.

Heat stroke can result from overexposure to direct sunlight, or to very high temperatures.  Symptoms include an extremely high body temperature (above 103F), red, hot and dry skin, rapid pulse, throbbing headache, dizziness, nausea and confusion. If heat stroke is present, find a cool place - preferably an air-conditioned setting - loosen the clothing, put the person in a semi-sitting position, and bathe the head and body with cold water.  Death or permanent disability can result if medical attention is not sought promptly.

In times of a Heat Advisory, a heat emergency can happen in a very short period of time.  If you experience someone who has stopped sweating, or is dizzy or confused this is a true medical emergency and 911 should be contacted for an ambulance. 

The Fayette County Health Department recommends following these guidelines:

• Drink 1 to 1-1/2 quarts of fluid daily to prevent dehydration.  Water, fruit juices and juice drinks are the best choices. Avoid alcohol and caffeine because they dehydrate the body.

• Avoid highly salted foods.

• Plan activities for the coolest part of the day - before noon or in the evening.

• Wear light colored, lightweight clothing. If you must go outside during the hottest part of the day, wear a hat.

• Use a sun screen with sun protection factor (SPF) greater then 15 to protect from sunburn.

• While outdoors, rest frequently in a shady area.

Never leave children, the elderly or pets in a parked car, not even for a few minutes.  Brain damage or death can occur from the rapid rise of temperature inside the vehicle.  During hot weather it is important that we keep an eye out for our friends, family and neighbors.  Unfortunately the elderly are often victims of heat related deaths.

Although any one at any time can suffer from heat-related illness, some people are at higher risk than others.

• Infants and children up to four years of age are sensitive to the effects of high temperatures and rely on others to regulate their environments and provide adequate liquids.

• People 65 years of age or older may not compensate for heat stress efficiently and are less likely to sense and respond to change in temperature.

• People who are overweight may be prone to heat sickness because of their tendency to retain more body heat.

• People who overexert during work or exercise may become dehydrated and susceptible to heat sickness.

• People who are physically ill, especially with heart disease or high blood pressure, or who take certain medications, such as for depression, insomnia, or poor circulation, may be affected by extreme heat.

Visit adults at high risk at least twice a day and closely watch them for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Infants and young children need much more frequent watching.  If there is no air conditioning at home, residents should find relief in public facilities such as libraries, shopping centers, senior centers, movie theaters and restaurants.  Senior citizens may want to contact their township, local church or community group about being escorted to the nearest cooling center.

For more information regarding heat-related illness, call the Fayette County Health Department at 283-1044.