According to The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, heat is the number one weather-related killer in the United States. When temperatures soar close to 100 degrees, with excessive humidity leaving you sweltering and sticky, you should be careful to protect both yourself and your loved ones from falling ill due to the heat.
Prevent heat-related illness: Stay Cool, Stay Hydrated, Stay Informed. Follow these tips:
• Air-conditioning is the number one protective factor against heat-related illness and death. Stay in an air-conditioned indoor location as much as possible.
• Drink plenty of fluids even if you don’t feel thirsty.
• Schedule outdoor activities carefully.
• Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing and sunscreen.
Pace yourself.
• Take cool showers or baths to cool down.
• Check on a friend or neighbor and have someone do the same for you.
• Never leave children or pets in cars.
• Check the local news for health and safety updates.
Individuals at high risk for heat-related illness are:
• People 65 year of age and older
• Children younger than two years of age
• People with chronic diseases or mental illness
Closely monitor people who depend on you for their care. Check on family, friends and neighbors without air conditioning, including the elderly who are more vulnerable to falling ill due to the heat. Never leave your child unattended in a vehicle, even with the windows down.
Seek medical care immediately if you, a family member, friend or neighbor has symptoms of heat-related illness.
For more information visit:
• KDHE Kansas Extreme Heat Toolkit: http://keap.kdhe.state.ks.us/EPHT/portal/PPortal/CONTENT/LINKS/9_LINKS/ExtremeHeatToolkit.pdf
CDC - Keep Your Cool in Hot Weather
http://www.cdc.gov/Features/ExtremeHeat/
• National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration- Heat Index Guide
http://www.nws.noaa.gov/om/heat/index.shtml
• American Red Cross- Heat Wave Safety Checklist
http://www.redcross.org/images/MEDIA_CustomProductCatalog/m4340158_HeatWave.pdf
• CDC Extreme Heat Media Toolkit
http://www.cdc.gov/extremeheat/index.html
