Emergency Management
Heat safety: Know the alerts, stay prepared
Heat is the deadliest weather hazard in the country, causing more fatalities each year than hurricanes, tornadoes or floods. So, as our summer temperatures climb, it’ s important to understand the National Weather Service’ s heat alerting system which notifies us when the heat becomes dangerous.
Heat Advisory is issued for dangerous heat conditions that are not expected to reach warning criteria. Consider postponing or rescheduling outdoor activities, especially during the heat of the day. If you must be outside, be sure to drink plenty of water and take frequent breaks in the shade. Stay in a cool place, especially during the heat of the day and evening.
Extreme Heat Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for an extreme heat event, but its occurrence and timing is still uncertain. Plan to suspend all major outdoor activities if a watch or warning is issued. If you do not have air conditioning, locate the nearest air-conditioned public or privately owned facility or discuss staying with nearby family or friends who have air conditioning.
Extreme Heat Warning is issued when extremely dangerous heat conditions are expected or occurring. Avoid outdoor activities, especially during the hottest times of the day. If you must be outside, be sure to drink plenty of water and take frequent breaks in the shade. Stay indoors in an airconditioned space as much as possible, including overnight. If you don’ t have air-conditioning at your residence, locate the nearest air-conditioned public or privately owned facility or discuss staying with nearby family or friends who have air conditioning. Check on family and neighbors.
Heat safety actions While temperatures continue to soar, keep an eye on local weather alerts; they’ ll give you the latest updates and safety advice. Drink water throughout the day, even if you don’ t feel thirsty, and avoid strenuous outdoor work when any heat alert is in effect. If a warning is issued, it’ s safest to postpone outdoor events until conditions improve.
During extremely hot and humid weather, your body ' s ability to cool itself is challenged. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides a list of warning signs and symptoms of heat illness, and recommended first aid steps. Some of these symptoms and steps are listed below.
Heat cramps: Heat cramps may be the first sign of heat-related illness and may lead to heat exhaustion or stroke.
Symptoms: Painful muscle cramps and spasms, usually in legs and abdomen; heavy sweating.
First aid: Apply firm pressure on cramping muscles or gently massage to relieve spasm. Give sips of water unless the person complains of nausea, then stop giving water.
Seek immediate medical attention if cramps last longer than one hour. www. CityofPSL. com / EM
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