Be On the Alert for Heat Exposure
Know the Signs and Beat the Heat
Jul 28, 2009
(OLYMPIA) | July 28, 2009 | We will be experiencing higher than normal temperatures for the remainder of the week. Take heed and protect yourself and your loved ones from heat-related illness.
Exposure to excessive heat can cause illness, injury and even death. Approximately 688 people die each year from exposure to extreme heat (CDC). The elderly, young children and people with chronic health problems are most at risk.
Be alert to the symptoms of heat related illnesses to make this a safer summer.
Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion:
Fatigue
Headache
Muscle cramps
Nausea or vomiting
Dizziness or fainting
Symptoms of Heatstroke:
High body temperature (>103ºF)
Rapid, strong pulse
Red, hot and dry skin
Throbbing headache
Dizziness
Nausea
Confusion
Heat-Related Illnesses are Preventable
Frequently check on those who are at risk and may be affected by the heat.
Drink plenty of fluids and avoid beverages that contain alcohol or caffeine.
Avoid strenuous activity.
Dress in light weight clothing.
Stay indoors and use air-conditioning when possible.
Elderly, Disabled and Shut-in
If you know someone that is elderly, disabled or home-bound due illness, check on them frequently. They are at a higher risk for health-related complications from the elevated temperatures.
Children in Vehicles
By mid-year 2009, twenty-two children in the US had died after being left inside a hot vehicle. These incidents can occur on days when temperatures are relatively mild. Temperatures inside vehicles can reach life-threatening temperatures very rapidly. Watch Zero Seconds. That's how long a child should be left alone in or around a car.
Never leave children alone in a car. A quick errand, such as picking up a gallon of milk, can create a potentially fatal situation.
The majority of the rise in temperature in a vehicle occurs within the first 30 minutes.
After 60 minutes, there could be about a 40ºF increase in temperature (when outside temperatures are between 72 to 96ºF).
Slightly opening the windows to vent the air does not significantly decrease the temperature inside the vehicle.
Remember - The temperature inside a vehicle can reach 117ºF in as little as 15-30 minutes when the outside temperature is 72ºF. Be safe - take your children with you In warm weather cars heat up quickly - even on moderate days. Additional facts, tips and resources can be found at Safe Kids.
Pet Safety
Summer is a great time to be outdoors with our pets. Going on a walk and even camping with pets can be fun. Remember though - hot weather can cause problems for pets.On hot days, never lock your pet in a car - they can suffer heat stroke. Also, learn the warning signs of an overheated pet:
- Excessive panting
- Increased heart and respiratory rate
- Drooling
- Mild weakness
- Stupor or collapse
Many pets suffer in the summer, but if you take note of sensible safety tips, you and your pet will be properly prepared for a great summer!
Hot Weather Resources
Emergency Resource Guide (see page 42)Heat Safe (DOH)
Heat Stress in the Elderly (CDC)
Hot Weather Tips for Pets (ASPCA)
Harrison's Hope is a national, nonprofit organization committed to educating children and caregivers about the dangers of children being left alone in and around cars. This page is linked to Zero Seconds, a public service announcement created by, and the property of the Harrison's Hope organization.
Additional information for this article is derived from information available at Washington Department of Health (DOH), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the American Academy of Pediatrics, Safe Kids USA and Harrison's Hope.