American Red Cross Permian Basin Area Chapter issued the following announcement on July 7
A blanket of heat is covering most of the country which will bring temperatures in the 90s to most of us and temperatures above 100 degrees to millions. The American Red Cross has steps you can take to help stay safe when the temperatures soar.
This summer heat and humidity can be deadly. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), more than 600 people in the United States are killed by extreme heat every year. Some people are more at risk of developing a heat-related illness, including adults age 65 and older, those with chronic medical conditions, people who work outside, infants and children and athletes.
HEAT SAFETY
- Hot cars can be deadly. Never leave children or pets in your vehicle — even for a minute. The inside temperature of the car can quickly reach 120 degrees.
- Check on family, friends and neighbors who have no air conditioning, spend much of their time alone or are likely to be affected by the heat.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol.
- Avoid extreme temperature changes.
- Wear loose-fitting, lightweight and light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays.
- Slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day.
- Postpone outdoor games and activities.
- Use a buddy system when working in excessive heat. Take frequent breaks.
- Check on animals frequently, and make sure they have plenty of shade and cool water.
COOLING CENTERS AND COVID-19 If someone doesn’t have air conditioning, they should seek relief from the heat in public facilities that do. In the current coronavirus pandemic, someone going to a public facility to stay cool should wear a cloth face covering and maintain social distancing, ideally at least six feet between individuals. Families who live together do not need to maintain physical distancing.
Excessive heat can lead to sunburn, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. The signs of heat exhaustion include cool, moist, pale or flushed skin; heavy sweating; headache; nausea; dizziness; weakness; or exhaustion. If someone is experiencing these symptoms, move them to a cooler place. Remove or loosen tight clothing. Spray the person with water or apply cool, wet cloths to the skin. If the person is conscious, provide small amounts of cool water to drink slowly. Watch for changes in condition. If the person refuses water, vomits or begins to lose consciousness, call 9-1-1.
Heat stroke is a life-threatening emergency. Signs include hot, red skin, which may be dry or moist; changes in consciousness; vomiting; and high body temperature. If you suspect someone is experiencing heat stroke, call 9-1-1 immediately. If possible, move the person to a cooler place and immerse them up to their neck in cold water. Otherwise, spray the person with cold water, or cover the person with cold, wet towels or bags of ice.
Original source can be found here.