MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us @PGFDPIO
The National Weather Service is forecasting high temperatures today
in the 90’s. Today is predicted to be one
of the hottest days of the year. Because this is the first round of seasonal
heat and bodies are not acclimated yet, heat exhaustion and heat stroke will be
a bigger threat than they would be later in the summer. Everyone is reminded to
take precautions to stay safe and healthy.
With high heat upon us in Prince George’s County
the men and women of your Fire/EMS Department want you to stay informed and
take precautions to stay safe and healthy. Temperatures in the nineties, combined
with Code Orange Air Quality may create a dangerous situation for children, the
elderly, and those who suffer from chronic heart or lung conditions.
Your best protection is to stay well hydrated. Sweat, or water,
allows heat to evaporate from your skin’s surface. If you become dehydrated, it
is more difficult for your body to maintain an acceptable temperature. The best
thing to drink is water. Gatorade or other sports drinks are also good. Avoid
drinks containing alcohol or caffeine. Limit heavy exertion when high levels of
heat and humidity are present.
HEAT RELATED ILLNESSES:
Any heat related illnesses will require a victim to be removed
from the hot environment in an air-conditioned or cool/shaded area.
Heat
exhaustion is a milder form of heatstroke that may develop due to a combination
of several days with high temperatures and dehydration in an individual. Signs
of heat exhaustion include extreme weakness, muscle cramps, nausea, or
headache. Victims may also vomit or faint. Heat exhaustion is treated with
plenty of liquids and rest in a cool, shaded area. If the persons
condition does not show signs of improvement call 911.
Heat exhaustion is a
milder form of heatstroke that may develop due to a combination of several days
with high temperatures and dehydration in an individual. Signs of heat
exhaustion include extreme weakness, muscle cramps, nausea, or headache.
Victims may also vomit or faint. Heat exhaustion is treated with plenty of
liquids and rest in a cool, shaded area. If the persons condition does not
show signs of improvement call 911.
Heatstroke is a serious illness characterized by a body
temperature greater than 105 degrees. Symptoms may include “dry” red skin,
convulsions, disorientation, delirium and coma. Onset of heatstroke can be
rapid: a person can go from feeling apparently well to a seriously ill
condition within minutes. Your body has lost the ability to sweat and naturally
“cool-off” – this is a true medical emergency. Treatment of heatstroke
involves the rapid lowering of body temperature, using a cool bath, bags of ice
or wet towels. Place ice bags in each armpit, groin and back of the neck.
A heatstroke victim should be kept in a cool area; emergency medical care
should be obtained by dialing 911.
Stay Informed - Stay Ready - Stay Safe
At Work
• Avoid the heat
• Reduce activity
• Drink plenty of water
Outdoors
• Wear light colored clothing
• Drink plenty of water
• Take frequent rest breaks in the air conditioning or shade
At Home
• Check on relatives and friends, especially the elderly
• Increase time spent in an air-conditioned environment
• Eat smaller meals, more often
• Take cool baths
• Make sure pets have access to water and shade
Remember to Stay Safe to ensure everyone goes home.
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