A Heat Advisory is typically issued within one to three days of the onset of dangerous heat and remains in effect until the danger subsides.
When the National Weather Service issues an advisory, it is intended to alert the community to an increased risk of heat-related illnesses and to use caution when outdoors during the hottest times of the day.
Heat cramps are the mildest form of heat illness, consisting of painful muscle cramps and spasms. Heat exhaustion is more severe and results from a loss of water and electrolytes in the body. Symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, and dizziness. If left untreated, it can progress to heat stroke, the most severe form of heat illness. Heat stroke occurs when the body's heat-regulating system is overwhelmed. It’s a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate medical attention, with symptoms such as high body temperature, altered mental state, nausea, rapid strong pulse, and a potential loss of consciousness.
During extreme heat, it's essential to wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing to help your body stay cool. Avoid strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day, usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Stay indoors as much as possible and use fans or air conditioning to cool down.
Certain groups are more vulnerable, including young children, the elderly, people with chronic medical conditions, and those who work or exercise outdoors. It’s important for these individuals to take extra precautions during extreme heat.
Staying hydrated is crucial. Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid beverages that can dehydrate you, like alcohol and caffeinated drinks. Keep a bottle of water with you and take regular sips throughout the day.
Places such as community centers, the library, malls, movie theaters are often great places to beat the heat and have some family fun at the same time.
If you or someone else shows signs of heat exhaustion, move to a cooler location, loosen clothing, and sip water. If symptoms worsen or don’t improve, seek medical attention. For heat stroke, call 911 immediately. While waiting for help, try to cool the person down with cool, wet clothes or a cool bath, but avoid giving them fluids. Place ice bags on the armpits and groin areas.
Ensure pets have plenty of fresh water and a cool place to rest. Never leave pets in a parked car, even for a short time. Limit their exercise during peak heat hours and watch for signs of heat stress, such as excessive panting or lethargy. Also, if the ground is too hot for your feet, it's too hot for your pet's feet as well.
Use fans to circulate air, keep blinds or curtains closed during the hottest part of the day, and open windows at night to let cooler air in. You can also take a cool shower to help lower your body temperature.
Stephen Combs, Public Information Officer PIO
Bluffton Township Fire District
843-757-2800
http://www.BlufftonFD.com
PIO@BlufftonFD.com
357 Fording Island Rd, Bluffton, SC 29909
WHHI Daily News Anchor: Bob Stevens
June 2024
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