Heat-related illness: Know the signs and how to stay safe
EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — A Heat Advisory is in effect through Wednesday, with feel-like temperatures expected to reach 100 degrees inland, plus high humidity.
Those conditions can spell danger for vulnerable groups like elderly people and those who work outside in the sun.
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Below you'll find information to help keep you and your family safe, including ways to stay cool and the signs of heat-related illness.
Safety tips for extreme heat
Heat-related illness can be dangerous, but it's a preventable condition.
Older people, young children, pregnant women and those with chronic medical conditions are the most vulnerable, so be sure to check on your family members, friends and neighbors.
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Here are some tips from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to stay safe during extreme heat and humidity:
Limit time outside
Stay inside, in an air-conditioned space as much as possible
If you don't have air conditioning, go to a cooling center
Limit the use of your oven or stove
Schedule outdoor activities for early morning or late evening
List of cooling centers in Rhode Island
Stay hydrated
Drink plenty of water
Don't wait until you're thirsty to drink
Avoid sugary beverages and alcohol
Keep your pets hydrated, too
Dress appropriately
Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing
If you must go outside, wear a hat and sunglasses
Apply sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher before going outdoors
Remember to reapply
Call 911 if someone is showing symptoms of heat stroke
Know the signs of heat exhaustion/heat stroke
Heat Cramps
The mildest form of heat-related illness
Muscle pains and spasms caused by heavy exertion
Usually the first sign your body is having trouble keeping cool
RELATED: Extreme heat and some medicines can be a risky combo
Heat Exhaustion
Occurs when body is dehydrated from lots of sweating
Symptoms include:
Heavy sweating (even though skin may be cool, pale or flushed)
Weak pulse
Dizziness
Nausea
Vomiting
Exhaustion
Headache
Treatment:
Lie down in a cool place
Loosen or remove clothing
Put cool, wet clothes on body
Go into air-conditioning if possible
Take slow sips of cool water (half a glass every 15 minutes)
If vomiting, get medical help
Heat Stroke
A life-threatening medical emergency
Body can no longer stay cool
Can cause brain damage or death
Symptoms include:
Temperature of 105º or higher
Hot, red, dry skin
Rapid, weak pulse
Shallow breathing
No sweating
Potential unconsciousness
Treatment
Call 911
Move person to cooler place
Remove person's clothing
Use cool (not cold) bath or wet cloth to lower body temperature
Use fan or air conditioner to help lower body temperature
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