HEAT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room and out of the sun when possible, and check on older relatives and neighbors. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.

Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, OSHA recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Call 911 if a sign of heat stroke is present!

SIGNS OF HEAT ILLNESS

Know the signs of (and difference between) heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Both can cause dizziness, nausea, and muscle cramps. How can you tell the difference?

Heat exhaustion is characterized by excessive sweating, clammy skin, and weak pulse. It can be treated by moving the patient to a cool, shady area, rehydrating him or her, and observing until the victim has recovered.

But any one or more of the following symptoms can mean heat exhaustion has progressed to heat stroke: sweating stops, throbbing headache, reddening of skin, fever, confusion, unconsciousness, and/or rapid pounding pulse.

Heat stroke is a medical emergency! Call 911 immediately, and cool the patient as much as possible until help arrives.. Never try to give water to someone who is not conscious.