• By Yalonda Miller
• Posted Friday, June 20, 2014

Extreme Heat Tips for Safety

Summer is officially upon us. Please be aware of the hot temperatures that we experience here in North Carolina, and take necessary precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses. School is out and children are actively participating in summer camps and spending more time outdoors. Children should be closely monitored for signs of heat stress, including:

• Muscle cramps
• Fatigue, weakness
• Dizziness, fainting
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting

Elderly people are also very susceptible to complications from extreme heat and the Forsyth County Department of Public Health is encouraging frequent checks on elderly family members and neighbors to be sure they are protected from the heat.

Here are some prevention tips for all ages:

• Drink more fluids, regardless of your activity level. Don't wait until you're thirsty to drink.
• Don't drink liquids that contain large amounts of sugar and avoid very cold drinks because they can cause stomach cramps.
• Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
• NEVER leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle.
• Stay indoors, and if at all possible, stay in an air-conditioned place.

If you must be out in the heat:

• Limit your outdoor activity to morning and evening hours.
• Cut down on exercising outside. If you must exercise, drink 2 to 4 glasses of cool water each hour.
• Try to rest often in shady areas.
• Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
• Put on sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher

For more information visit:

http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/heattips.asp or http://www.ready.gov/heat