Extreme Weather Tips & Information

extremeheatIn the midst of our current high temperatures, heat exhaustion and heat stroke are two heat related injuries that can result. The most serious of these is heat stroke which if left unchecked can quickly become an emergency with potentially fatal consequences. The two conditions are both preventable if we plan and prepare. The following are items recommended by the Cleveland Clinic that will help prevent these conditions.

  1. Avoid the heat when possible. Stay in cool locations out of direct sunlight. Shaded areas with a breeze may be more comfortable than being in doors. If you can’t find cool a place to stay cool consider public cooling centers or other activities that take place in temperature controlled buildings.
  2. If you must work outside consider doing so in the early morning or later evening hours of the day. Attempt to avoid the peak heating hours when the sun is most direct.
  3. Take frequent breaks in an air-conditioned environment.
  4. Stay hydrated. Make sure to drink plenty of water. Avoid soft drinks, alcohol and caffeinated beverages. Water is the best means of keeping hydrated. You may need more than normal to replace fluid that leaves the body through perspiration. People that are very active and working out doors should take frequent water breaks, up to every 15 minutes.
  5. Wear sunscreen, the Cleveland Clinic indicates that sunburned skin can lead to further dehydration and reduce its’ ability to cool you down.
  6. Wear lighter colored clothing and a wide brimmed hat.
  7. Avoid heavy meals.
  8. Monitor urination. Frequent urination could be an indicator of a heat related information.   

For more information see their web page at https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16425-heat-illness

Some additional items to consider include:

  • Check on your neighbors and make sure they are ok. Especially elderly that may not have air conditioning.
  • Never leave children and pets alone in vehicles.
  • Learn the signs and symptoms of heat related illnesses and react quickly to get out of the heat and cool down.

If you have questions please contact the Holland Fire Department at 616-355-1020.