Multiple days of intense heat disproportionately lead to more severe public health impacts, even in areas accustomed to summer heat. ED visits for heat-related illnesses surge on "major" and "extreme" heat risk days, especially when high humidity and warm nights stop the body from cooling, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).

Extreme heat can cause heat exhaustion, heat stroke, or a life-threatening illness that can occur if heat exhaustion isn't treated. Experts say that if there's a heat advisory in your area, you should avoid outdoor activities entirely. But even if there isn't one, you should be cautious on a hot day. It's one of the big misconceptions about heat to think, 'I'm only in danger when there's a heat wave occurring.'"

With record-breaking temperatures and projected heat waves this summer, here are tips to help you stay safe.

Check the heat index and weather alerts.

Before going outside, make sure to check the heat index, as it includes the humidity and air temperature to give you a more accurate idea of how the temperature feels to the human body. Also, pay attention to cloud coverage, wind flow, and what time you plan on being outside. When it comes to heat-related illnesses, if it's a very humid day and there's no wind, then you are more at risk, even if the air temperature is lower. If possible, plan any outdoor activities earlier in the day before the hottest time of the day in your area. Three to 5 p.m. in the afternoon is one of the most dangerous times of day.

Stay hydrated.

Drink plenty of water. Carry a water bottle and refill it throughout the day. And don’t wait until you are thirsty to start drinking water – by that point, you’re probably already beginning to get dehydrated.

Pay attention to what you’re wearing.

Wear lightweight, breathable garments, cotton or linen fabrics are best as well as moisture-wicking materials. Wear loose clothing and remember your sunscreen, sunglasses, and wide-brimmed hats to avoid sunburn.

Seek shady, natural environments and keep cool.

Plan outdoor activities for early morning or evening when the sun is less direct. Where you are outside can make a big difference in how hot it feels. Dark surfaces like asphalt typically absorb more heat than natural environments, and shaded areas can feel much cooler. Remember, although indoor fans can help when the inside temperature is below 90 degrees, they can increase your body temperature when it’s hotter than that.

Check on others.

When it’s extremely hot, check in on your neighbors, particularly older adults and those with chronic conditions, to see if they’re OK. Remember your pets – make sure they have plenty of water and ways to cool down. Pets can get heat stroke, too.

Know the signs of heat illness and get medical treatment when needed.

The three kinds of heat illness are heat stroke, heat exhaustion and heat cramps.

• Heat stroke – People experiencing heat stroke need immediate medical assistance – call 911. Heat stroke is life-threatening. Symptoms include a body temperature of 103 degrees or higher; red, hot, dry, damp skin; rapid, strong pulse; headache; dizziness; nausea; confusion; and loss of consciousness. While you are waiting for emergency responders, cool the person by any means possible, such as cool cloths or water from a garden hose. Move the person to a cool place.

• Heat exhaustion – Call 911 if the exhausted individual starts throwing up, if symptoms get worse, or if they last for more than an hour. Signs of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, cold, pale, and clammy skin; fast, weak pulse; muscle cramps; tiredness or weakness; dizziness; headache; and nausea or vomiting. Move the exhausted person to a cool place, loosen their clothing, and have them sip water. Put cool, wet cloths on the person or have them take a cool bath.

• Heat cramps – The first sign of heat-related illness, heat cramps involve painful muscle cramps and spasms, along with heavy sweating. A person with heat cramps should rest, cool down, and drink liquids such as apple juice or a sports drink with electrolytes.

Understanding how to stay safe and cool during a heat advisory is paramount as we navigate through the summer months. Being informed and prepared can make all the difference. On behalf of Accountable, have a great and safe summer!

Jessica Chavez, MBA, MSN, RN
Director of Quality Management
Accountable Healthcare Staffing

Sources:
American Red Cross
National Weather Service