Protect Yourself Against Extreme Heat

Posted on July 9th, 2019

As temperatures rise, Gwinnett, Newton, and Rockdale County Health Departments remind residents to take extra precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses or deaths.  The elderly, very young, and people with disabilities and chronic diseases are at higher risk for heat-related death or illness.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers the following tips for extreme heat exposure:

  • Know the signs for heat exhaustion: heavy sweating; paleness; muscle cramps; tiredness; weakness; dizziness; headache; nausea or vomiting; fainting; skin may be cool and moist; pulse rate fast and weak; breathing fast and shallow.  Heat stroke:  extremely high body temperature (above 103°F); red, hot, and dry skin (no sweating); rapid strong pulse; throbbing headache; dizziness and nausea.  Should these symptoms occur after exposure to heat, seek medical attention.
  • Drink water, regardless of activity level.  Do not wait until you are thirsty.  Do not drink liquids that contain caffeine, alcohol or large amounts of sugar – they can cause the loss of body fluids.  Avoid very cold drinks-they can cause stomach cramps.
  • Stay indoors and, if possible, stay or go to an air-conditioned place.  Malls, recreation centers, and senior centers (when open) can be good options.
  • Wear lightweight, light colored, loose-fitting clothing.
  • Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle.
  • Limit outdoor activity to morning and evening hours.
  • Cut down on outdoor exercise.  If on a low-salt diet, talk with a doctor before drinking sports beverages.
  • Rest often in shady places.

For guidance and information on the prevention of heat related illnesses, log-on to http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/

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