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CONTACT: Beth Kaplan , (608)
266-1683
STATE OFFICIALS ISSUE HEAT-RELATED PUBLIC HEALTH ADVISORY
High Temperatures Can Cause Heat-related Illness
MADISON—State health officials have issued a public health advisory
due to forecasts calling for temperatures this week in the mid to upper
90s, with heat indices ranging from 95 to 105 degrees.
“We are asking everyone to take precautions to avoid heat exhaustion,
and to check on their family, friends and neighbors who may be
especially vulnerable to extreme heat,” said Dr. Henry Anderson, State
Health Officer. “By making everyone aware of safety measures and helping
them recognize the warning signs of heat exhaustion, we can prevent
heat-related illness and death.”
Most heat-related illnesses involve the elderly or individuals who
have chronic illnesses, although children, athletes and outdoor workers
are also at risk. People with a history of asthma should avoid strenuous
activity and follow the DNR air quality alerts and advisories. (http://dnr.wi.gov/topic/AirQuality/).
Symptoms of heat exhaustion include fainting, rash, fatigue and
nausea, and the skin may become clammy and moist or hot and dry. If
these symptoms appear, take immediate actions to reduce body
temperature.
When temperatures are above 90° F, the following actions are
recommended:
• To avoid dehydration, a conscious effort should be made to drink
more fluids during hot weather. Rapid weight loss may be a sign of
dehydration.
• Use fans to increase ventilation unless temperatures exceed 90° F,
at which point fans become ineffective in reducing heat-related illness.
• Cool showers, baths and sponge baths can be used to reduce body
temperatures. Wet clothing also has a cooling effect.
• Spend the hottest part of the day in a cool, preferably
air-conditioned place. If you do not have air conditioning at home, try
to get to a location that does, such as a public library, community
center, or a shopping mall, or visit a nearby cooling center. For
information about a cooling center near you, dial 2-1-1.
• Make frequent checks on the status of elderly or ill relatives or
neighbors. If necessary, move them to an air-conditioned environment
during the hottest part of the day.
Symptoms such as dizziness, weakness and fatigue are early warning
signs that should not be ignored. The onset of heat stroke can be rapid
and may progress to life-threatening illness within minutes. Serious
cases require emergency medical care.
Never leave anyone unattended in cars, especially children or any
pets. The temperature inside a car can rise to life-threatening levels
in a matter of minutes, even with windows cracked open.
Strenuous activity should be avoided during the hottest part of the
day. If such activity is unavoidable, drink plenty of fluids and take
frequent breaks in air-conditioned or shaded areas. Consider monitoring
body weight and oral temperature. A weight loss of more than 2 lbs. or
an oral temperature above 99° F is cause for concern.
For more information on heat-related health concerns, visit these
websites:
www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/health/injuryprevention/WeatherRelated/Heat.htm.
Extreme Heat, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/.
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Last Revised:
July 02, 2012
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