Hot weather safety tips as temperatures climb across America
Summer's here and a major heat wave is spreading across the central and eastern US, with millions of people under heat advisories. Weather forecasters are keeping a close eye on conditions this week.
Summer means BBQs, beach trips, and outdoor activities. But when temperatures get really high, it's smart to take some precautions to stay safe and comfortable.
HEAT SAFETY MATTERS
Heat-related illnesses affect hundreds of Americans each year, including people who seem perfectly healthy. Older adults and folks in areas that don't typically need air conditioning tend to have higher rates of heat-related problems.
Take that California family in 2021 — they started a hike when it was in the 70s, but temperatures rose unexpectedly and tragically, all three suffered fatal heat stroke.
Chicago's 1995 heat wave was another wake-up call, when at least 700 people died during extreme temperatures.
RECOGNIZING HEAT-RELATED ILLNESS
Heat illness develops in stages, and it's important to catch the early signs. Here's what to look for:
Early Signs
Heat cramps in your muscles
Heat rash on your skin
Heavy sweating
Heat Exhaustion — More Serious
Dizziness
Nausea
Excessive sweating
Feeling weak or tired
Headache
Increased thirst
Heat Stroke — Medical Emergency This is when your body can't regulate its temperature anymore. Your core temperature can hit 106°F or higher, which can damage your brain, heart, and kidneys. People with heat stroke often stop sweating, become confused, and may pass out or have seizures. This requires immediate medical attention.
UNDERSTANDING HEAT INDEX
Temperature alone doesn't tell the whole story. Humidity makes heat more dangerous because it prevents your sweat from cooling you effectively.
Check the heat index, which combines temperature and humidity to give you a better picture of heat-related health risks.
Keep in mind that if you're in direct sunlight, the actual heat index can be up to 15 degrees higher than what weather reports indicate, since those measurements are taken in the shade.
STAYING SAFE IN HOT WEATHER
1. Limit Outdoor Activities Avoid strenuous outdoor work or exercise during the hottest parts of the day when possible.
2. Find Air Conditioning If you feel overheated, get to an air-conditioned space quickly. Libraries, community centers, and shopping centers are good options if you don't have AC at home.
3. Be Smart About Fans Fans work well in moderate heat, but once indoor temperatures reach 95°F, fans can actually make things worse by circulating hot air.
4. Stay Hydrated Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. Water and sports drinks help replace both fluids and electrolytes lost through sweating.
5. Check on Others Keep an eye on elderly neighbors and anyone who might not have access to air conditioning. Regular check-ins can help catch problems early.
PLANNING AHEAD
Heat waves are a regular part of summer, but with some preparation and common sense, you can stay safe and still enjoy the season. Pay attention to weather forecasts, know the warning signs of heat illness, and don't hesitate to take it easy when temperatures climb.
About the Authors: Feel Amazing Daily was co-founded by Keith Ablow, MD and Kathryn Munoz PhD., MPH. Together, they have decades of experience in healthcare and health communications, including publishing New York Times Best Selling books, advising leading healthcare companies, coaching medical leaders, and appearing on national programs like the Today Show, Fox News and Oprah.
Read more at Keith & Kathy's Corner
