People living in several states across the country including South Dakota are battling extreme heat. Heat is the number one weather-related killer in the United States.The National Weather Service says heat kills more people per year than floods, lightning, tornadoes and hurricanes combined.Their data says from 2000 to 2009, excessive heat killed an average of 162 people a year. To put that in perspective, they say hurricanes killed 117, floods 65, tornadoes 62, and lightning, 48.
First of all the American Red Cross says there are some basic things you should be doing when you are outside in this heat. Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids, even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol. Eat small meals and eat more often. They also say to wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day. You also might want to think about postponing outdoor games and activities. They say take frequent breaks if you must work outdoors, and use a buddy system when working in excessive heat.
Also check on your neighbors especially the elderly to make sure they are cool and that their air conditioning is working. Don't forget about your pets and make sure they aren't being left outside.
When you are out in this extreme heat the American Red Cross says there are several illnesses you need to be aware of.
Starting with Heat Cramps. These are muscular pains and spasms that happen in the legs or abdomen. They are caused by high heat and humidity and loss of fluids. Heat cramps are usually an early sign that the body is having trouble with the heat.
The next step is heat exhaustion. This illness usually involves the loss of body fluids through heavy sweating during strenuous exercise or physical labor in high heat and humidity. You want to watch out for cool, moist, pale or flushed skin. Also watch out for heavy sweating,headache, nausea,dizziness,weakness,and exhaustion.
If someone you know comes down with those symptoms move the person to a cooler place. Then you'll want to remove tight clothing and apply cool, wet cloths or towels to their skin. You need to try to cool them off. If the person is awake try to get them to sip some cool water very slowly. Watch for changes in condition. If the person refuses water, vomits or begins to lose consciousness, call 9-1-1 immediately.
Then there is Heat Stroke. This is a life-threatening condition where your temperature control system stops working and the body is unable to cool itself. Watch for hot, red skin that may be dry or moist, changes in consciousness; vomiting, and high body temperature. If you or someone you know is having those symptoms here's what to do. Call 9-1-1 immediately and then move the person to a cooler place. Quickly cool the person's body by giving care as you would for heat exhaustion. If needed, continue rapid cooling by applying ice or cold packs wrapped in a cloth to the wrists, ankles, groin, neck and armpits.
The National Weather Service also says that many studies show that how sick you get from the heat can depend on your age. They say conditions that cause heat cramps in a 17-year-old may result in heat exhaustion in someone 40, and heat stroke in a person over 60.
The National Weather Service also warns about the dangers of hyperthermia. Children die from hyperthermia every year when they are left in parked cars. Hyperthermia is a condition when the body absorbs more heat than it can handle. Studies have shown that the temperature inside a parked car can rise very quickly to a dangerous level for children, adults and pets. Leaving the windows slightly open will not make a big impact on keeping the car cool. The effects can be more severe on children because their bodies warm at a faster rate than adults.
A few other things to keep in mind when it comes to this high heat from the National Weather Service. Make sure your child's safety seat and safety belt buckles aren't too hot before you buckle your child in. Again, never leave your child unattended in a vehicle, even with the windows down. Teach children not to play in, on or around cars. Always lock car doors and trunks even at home and keep keys out of children's reach. It's summertime so enjoy your time at the pool, but make sure you do it safely!
