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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