Taking the ‘heat’

Heat can kill. In fact, excessive heat has caused more deaths than all other weather events in recent years, including floods.

A heat wave generally involves temperatures ten degrees or more above average, which last for a long period of time and are often combined with high humidity.

Weather broadcasts keep the public informed as to impending heat conditions, but there is a difference in the following types of excessive heat alerts:

Excessive heat watch:  excessive heat meeting or exceeding a local heat warning in the next 24 to 72 hours.
Heat warning:  heat forecast to meet or exceed daytime highs of 105-110 degrees Fahrenheit for at least 2 days.
Heat advisory:  heat forecast to meet or exceed daytime highs of 105-110 degrees Fahrenheit for 1 to 2 days.

How to prepare:

• Listen to local weather forecasts to stay aware of upcoming temperature changes.
• The heat index is the temperature the body feels due to the combined factors of heat and humidity. Exposure to direct sunlight can increase the heat index by as much as 15 degrees Fahrenheit.
• People living in urban areas are at greater risk from prolonged heat than those living in rural areas.
• Ensure that your animals’ needs for water and shade are met, and check on them regularly.

During a heat wave:

• Never leave children or pets alone in enclosed vehicles.
• Drink plenty of fluids even if you don’t feel thirsty; avoid caffeine or alcohol.
• Eat small meals and eat more often.
• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors that absorb the sun’s rays.
• Slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest times of the day.
• Postpone outdoor games and activities until the sun goes down.
• Take frequent breaks if you work outdoors.

Heat-related emergencies:

• Heat cramps are muscle pains and spasms usually in the legs or abdomen caused by high heat, loss of fluids and electrolytes.
• Heat exhaustion is due to a loss of fluids through excessive sweating during strenuous exercise or physical labor. Signs of heat exhaustion are: cool, moist, pale or flushed skin; heavy sweating; headache; nausea; dizziness; weakness and exhaustion. Move the individual to a cooler place; apply wet cloths to the skin and give small sips of water. If the person refuses water, vomits or begins to lose consciousness, call 9-1-1.
• Heat stroke, which is also known as sunstroke, is a life-threatening condition. A person’s body temperature control system stops working, and the body is unable to cool itself. Signs of heat stroke are: hot, red skin, which can be either dry or moist; vomiting; high body temperature and changes in consciousness. Call 9-1-1 immediately. In the meantime, use the same care procedures as indicated for heat exhaustion. If needed, accelerate rapid cooling by applying ice packs wrapped in cloth to wrists, ankles, groin, neck and armpit areas.

Heat can kill, and in Arizona during the summer months it’s important to know how to ‘take the heat.’

File photo