As the Temps Soar, Let's Talk Heat Safety

Temperatures will once again find their way into the 90s across Central PA today and tomorrow.  Heat is the number one weather-related killer in the United States, claiming an average of 162 lives per year.  That being said, tornado deaths will be #1 far and away this year, as we already have 525 deaths due to tornadoes this year, which is almost ten times the average.

With the heat being so dangerous, it's important to take the heat and humidity seriously.  Here's what you can do to stay safe in the heat:

• Limit your time outside - Stay out of the heat as much as possible, especially during the hottest time of the day, which is between about noon and 5:00pm.  Save strenuous outdoor activities for the morning or evening hours, or wait until the hot weather moves out of the area.
• Take frequent breaks - If you are outside, take frequent breaks and try to get in the shade or air conditioning if possible.
• Drink plenty of non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated  beverages - Water and sports drinks are the best way to stay hydrated in the heat, and you need to drink a lot more liquid on a hot, humid day because you're losing much more water due to perspiration.  Avoid alcoholic and caffeinated beverages, as they can hasten heat stroke or heat exhaustion. 
• Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing - Light-colored clothing is important on a hot, sunny day because darker colors absorb more light and will make you feel hotter.  If you wear white or a lighter color, the sun's light and energy is reflected away from your body, which will help keep you cooler.
• Try to find air conditioning - If you do not have air conditioning in your home, try to find a place to go during the hottest time of the day that does have air conditioning, such as a library or shopping mall.
• Recognize the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke - 
• Heat exhaustion symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, thready pulse, cold, pale and clammy skin. A normal temperature is possible, along with fainting and vomiting.  
• If you see someone with heat exhaustion: Get victim out of sun. Once inside, the person should lay down and loosen clothing. Apply cool, wet cloths. Fan or move victim to air conditioned room. Offer sips of water. If nausea occurs, discontinue water. If vomiting continues, seek immediate medical attention.
• Heat stroke symptoms include a very high body temperature (103° F or higher), hot dry skin, a rapid and strong pulse and possible unconsciousness.
•  If you see someone with heat stroke:  Get emergency medical assistance or get to a hospital immediately!  Heat stroke is a severe medical emergency, and a delay in medical attention could be fatal. While waiting for emergency assistance, move the victim to a cooler environment and reduce body temperature with cold bath or sponging. Use extreme caution, remove clothing, use fans and air conditioners. If temperature rises again, repeat process. Do not give fluids. Persons on salt restrictive diets should consult a physician before increasing their salt intake.
• Keep a close eye on the elderly - especially if they do not have air conditioning.
• Don't forget about pets - make sure pets have access to shade and plenty of water.  Bring them inside if possible.

Also, if you're going to be outside for a long period, don't forget the sunscreen to prevent sunburn!

Have fun in the warm weather, but remember to stay safe!

--Meteorologist Brian Thompson