Heat Related Illness - Signals and Treatment (Link)
What is a Heat Wave?
A Heat Wave is a prolonged period of excessive heat and humidity. The National Weather Service steps up its procedures to alert the public during these periods of excessive heat and humidity.
The Heat Index is a number in degrees Fahrenheit that explains how hot it really feels (much like wind chill for cold weather) when the relative humidity is added to the actual air temperature.
Heat Wave Safety:
- Slow Down! Avoid strenuous activity and if you must perform strenuous activities do it during the coolest part of the day which is usually the morning between 4 am and 7 am.
- Stay indoors as much as possible. If air conditioning isn’t available, stay on the lowest floor, out of direct sunlight. Remember fans don’t cool the air, but they do help sweat evaporate which can help cool your body.
- Drink plenty of water regularly and often. Avoid drinks with alcohol or caffeine as they can dehydrate you and put your body at risk for a heat related illness.