Dangerous heat requires extra precautions

This week’s stretch of hot, humid weather across north-central Wisconsin is a reminder that summer heat and humidity can be potentially dangerous for many residents, requiring extra precautions. Health officials are encouraging residents to take the heat seriously and recognize the warning signs of heat-related illness before they become life-threatening.
The National Weather Service says multiple days of high temperatures combined with elevated humidity can significantly increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, because high humidity makes it more difficult for the body’s natural cooling system to work effectively. Very warm overnight temperatures also reduce the body’s ability to recover from daytime heat.
“Extreme heat is something people should prepare for before hotter temperatures arrive,” Wisconsin Emergency Management Administrator Greg Engle said during Wisconsin’s recent Heat Awareness campaign. “Now is the time to have a plan, check on loved ones, and ensure you know what you need and what to do to stay safe and cool this summer.”
According to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS), extreme heat is one of the deadliest weather hazards in Wisconsin. The agency recommends that residents stay hydrated, slow down strenuous activities, spend time in air-conditioned buildings whenever possible, and check frequently on neighbors, family members, and friends who may be more vulnerable to heat.

Who is most at risk?

While anyone can develop a heat-related illness, the Wisconsin DHS says certain groups are at greater risk, including:
• Adults age 65 and older.
• Infants and young children.
• People with chronic medical conditions.
• Pregnant women.
• Outdoor workers.
• Athletes.
• People without access to air conditioning.
• Individuals who live alone or have limited mobility.
The agency notes that fans alone may not provide enough protection during very high temperatures. When temperatures climb, residents without air conditioning should consider visiting a public cooling center or another air-conditioned location. Wisconsin residents can call 211 to locate the nearest cooling center.

Heat exhaustion can become life-threatening
According to ReadyWisconsin, heat exhaustion often develops after prolonged exposure to heat or physical activity.

Symptoms include:
• Heavy sweating.
• Cool, pale or clammy skin.

• Muscle cramps.
• Weakness or unusual fatigue.
• Headache.
• Dizziness.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Fainting.
• A rapid, weak pulse.
Someone showing these symptoms should be moved immediately to a cool location. ReadyWisconsin recommends loosening clothing, applying cool wet cloths or taking a cool bath, and sipping water if the person is awake and alert. Medical attention should be sought if symptoms worsen, vomiting occurs, or symptoms do not improve within about an hour.

Heatstroke is a medical emergency
Heatstroke is the most severe form of heat-related illness and requires immediate emergency medical treatment.

According to ReadyWisconsin and the CDC’s National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), warning signs include:
• Body temperature of 103 degrees or higher.
• Hot, red skin that may be dry or damp.
• Confusion.
• Slurred speech.
• Loss of consciousness.
• Seizures.
• A rapid, strong pulse.
Call 911 immediately for anyone suspected of having heat stroke.
While waiting for emergency responders, officials recommend moving the person into shade or an air-conditioned building and cooling them with cold water, wet towels, ice packs, or a cool bath if possible. Do not give an unconscious person anything to drink.

Outdoor workers should take extra precautions
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends the simple approach of “Water. Rest. Shade.” Workers should drink water before becoming thirsty, take frequent rest breaks, and seek shade or air conditioning whenever possible. Employers are also encouraged to allow workers time to gradually acclimate to hot conditions at the beginning of the season or after returning from time away.

Don’t forget children and pets
Officials also remind residents never to leave children, older adults, or pets inside parked vehicles.
According to ReadyWisconsin, on an 80-degree day, temperatures inside a vehicle parked in direct sunlight can climb nearly 20 degrees within 10 minutes, even if a window is cracked.

Local resources available
Lincoln County Emergency Management reminds residents that heat-related illness is “100% preventable” with proper precautions. The county encourages people to drink plenty of water, limit outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day, wear lightweight clothing, and take advantage of local cooling centers when necessary. Information about county cooling centers is available through Lincoln County Emergency Management, and residents statewide can also call 211 for assistance locating the nearest cooling site.