Safety tips: Forecasters warn that summer heat could be life-threatening

August 01, 2007
Santa Paula News

Red flag warnings and drought have already impacted the state, and forecasters are warning that this summer could bring heat waves similar to those that hit California last year, killing more than 140 people, according to a recently released state report.

By Peggy KellySanta Paula TimesRed flag warnings and drought have already impacted the state, and forecasters are warning that this summer could bring heat waves similar to those that hit California last year, killing more than 140 people, according to a recently released state report. The Department of Health Services Report found that most of the victims were elderly, poor and frail. About 46 percent lived alone.The study found that the majority of the victims died of heat stroke, usually after several days of high temperatures. Many of the victims either didn’t have air conditioners or, for some reason, didn’t use them. According to the reports, some of the victims appeared to be using fans to keep cool, not effective for those highest at risk.Of the 46 percent of the victims who lived alone, the study stated that many did not have someone regularly checking in with them. When the temperatures soar, be a good neighbor: during heat waves check in on elderly neighbors and those who do not have air conditioning.Warning signs of heat stroke are an extremely high body temperature (above 103 degrees F), red, hot skin with no sweating, rapid, strong pulse, throbbing headache and dizziness. Nausea and confusion are also signs of heat stroke.Emergency medical treatment, getting the victim to a shady area, cooling the victim rapidly using whatever means available, monitoring the body temperature until it drops to 101-102 F, and avoiding giving the victim fluids are important steps to do in the case of heatstroke.
Heavy sweating, paleness, tiredness, muscle cramps, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea or vomiting and fainting can be warning signs of heat exhaustion. With heat exhaustion the skin may be cool and moist, and the victim’s pulse rate will be fast and weak... breathing will be fast and shallow.Cooling methods for heatstroke victims that may be effective include cool, non-alcoholic beverages, rest, cool shower, bath or sponge bath, an air-conditioned environment, and lightweight clothing.Hot weather can also bring heat cramps - muscle pain or spasms usually in the arms, legs or abdomen - and those with heart problems or on low-sodium diets must get medical attention. Heat cramps can be countered by sitting quietly in a cool place, drinking clear juice or a “sports” beverage, and taking it easy for a few hours, as further exertion may lead to heatstroke or heat exhaustion. If heat cramps do not subside in one hour, seek medical attention.Another heat related issue is sunburn. A physician must be consulted, no matter the severity, if sunburn affects an infant younger than 1-year-old. Red, painful and abnormally warm skin, blisters and severe pain can result from sunburn, which in the long run can cause skin cancer. Apply cold compresses, take a cool bath, leave the blisters alone and use moisturizer - not butter, ointment or salve - on the burn.Tips for avoiding the pitfalls of extreme hot weather include: dress lightly, both in weight and color; wear a hat or use an umbrella if you go out; drink water and avoid alcohol and caffeine; eat small, eat often and avoid high-protein meals. Slow down and save unavoidable strenuous activity for the coolest part of the day, early morning or late afternoon, and stay indoors whenever possible, on the lowest floor out of direct sunlight.



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