LANSING, MI — The National Weather Service has declared Wednesday, May 29 as Heat Awareness Day in Michigan. Heat is the number one weather-related killer in the United States, resulting in hundreds of fatalities each year. As the summer months approach, the Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) is advising residents of the health risks associated with extreme temperatures and preventive measures they can take to stay safe.
Any time temperatures are in the upper 80s and above, they can cause body temperature to rise which can result in in muscle cramps, dizziness, severe heat illness and even death. While extreme heat can put everyone at risk from heat illnesses, health risks are greatest for older adults, infants and young children, people with chronic health conditions, or mental impairment, people who work or exercise in the heat, and the homeless.
Heat illness can occur when the body is unable to cool down, which normally occurs by sweating. During extremely hot weather, sweating may not be enough to cool the body. That’s when people can become overheated to the point of becoming ill. During very hot weather, the most important thing is to keep cool and hydrated. Follow these steps to protect yourself in hot weather:
· Stay cool. Use an air conditioner or go to a cool place such as a basement, neighbor’s house, shopping mall or cooling center. Spending even a few hours a day in air conditioning can help reduce your risk for heat illness.
· Use a fan only when the windows are open or the air conditioner is on. Fans will not prevent heat illness when the temperature is in the high 90s.
· Take a cool shower or bath.
· Keep shades and curtains closed to block the sun from coming in your home or office.
· Avoid exercising and physical activity during the hottest part of the day. Mornings and evenings are usually cooler than mid-day.
· Stay out of the sun. If you must be in the sun, wear thin and light-colored clothing, a hat and sunglasses. Wear sunscreen (at least SPF15) and reapply every two hours, after swimming or exercising.
· Avoid alcohol and caffeine because both can cause dehydration.
· Never, ever leave children, the elderly or pets in parked vehicles. Vehicles heat up very quickly and can become dangerous, even with the windows open.
Heat stress can occur gradually and the individual may not be aware that they are becoming dangerously overheated. Be sure to check frequently on loved ones, neighbors and friends who may be at greatest risk for heat illness and move them to a cool place if necessary.
This was printed in the June 2, 2013 – June 15, 2013 Edition
