Staying Safe: Extreme Heat in the Forecast

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Fire Chief Scott Goldstein is urging residents to stay cool, stay hydrated and to check on loved ones, the elderly and neighbors who may be more vulnerable to the effects of extreme heat.“Heat emergencies are more common when temperatures rise and the humidity is high. Staying hydrated is essential all year long but is particularly important when temperatures soar. Make simple changes in your fluid intact, activities and clothing to help reduce the risk of hyperthermia and heat stroke.” 

The Chief reminds residents to stay informed by listening to local weather and news channels, signing up for AlertMontgomery and continuing to follow local COVID-19 best practices and regulations when out in public.

1. Pre-hydrate, hydrate and re-hydrate

During hot weather increase your fluid intake, regardless of your activity level. Drink plenty of water and fluids in advance, during and after activities and don’t wait until you're thirsty to hydrate.

2.  Monitor those at high risk.
Extreme heat can be hazardous to your health and although anyone can suffer from heat-related illness, some people are at greater risk than others. Those most at risk for heat-related illnesses include children, older adults, those that work or exercise outside and those with pre-existing medical conditions.

3.  Dress for the heat.
Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Light colors will reflect some of the sun’s energy. Limit your direct exposure to the sun and wear a hat for extra protection.

4. Hot cars can be deadly.
Never, ever leave children, pets or the elderly in a parked car -- even with the windows down. Temperatures can become life-threatening in minutes. Hot interior surfaces of a car can burn. Before you put your child in a car that has been parked in a warm/sunny spot, check the temperature of the car seat or upholstery first to avoid burns. 

- Make it a habit of opening the rear door of the car every time you park to ensure no one is left inside. Park. Look. Lock. 

- To enforce this habit, please an item that you can't start your day without such as your cell phone, purse, one of your shoes, briefcase, employee badge, etc.

- When at home, keep your vehicle locked at all times, even in the garage.   

5. Don’t over-exercise.
Take regular breaks when exercising or engaged in physical activity on warm days. If you recognize that you, or someone else, is showing signs of a heat-related illness, stop the activity immediately, find a cool place to rest, hydrate and seek medical attention if necessary. Read below for more important information.

6. Be a good neighbor.
Isolated, elderly adults are at a much higher risk of health-related issues. Be a good neighbor and take a minute to check in with your neighbors while being mindful of social distance protocols. Offering to put/retrieve trash cans or recycles might not seem like a big deal to you – but it might be a big help to them. 

7. Protect your pets in hot weather.
Hot weather can affect the well-being of pets making them susceptible to overheating which can lead to very dangerous heat stroke. Always provide a source of water and a cool, ventilated place for your pet. Leaving your pet inside a parked car, even for a few minutes, can be fatal. The inside of a car can quickly reach 120 degrees, even on a 70 degree day. 

Warning Signs and Symptoms of Heat Emergencies

Signs of Heat Exhaustion

• Faint or dizzy
• Heavy sweating
• Weakness
• Cold, pale and clammy skin
• Rapid, weak pulse
• Nausea or vomiting
• Muscle cramps

What to do:

• Move to a cooler location
• Lie down and loosen your clothing
• Apply cool, wet cloths or compresses to as much of your body as possible
• Sip water

Signs of Heat Stroke

• Throbbing headache
• No sweating
• High body temperature (above 103 degrees F)
• Hot, red, dry or moist skin
• Rapid, strong pulse
• Possible unconsciousness

What to do:

• Call 9-1-1 immediately--THIS IS A MEDICAL EMERGENCY
• Move the person to a cooler environment
• Reduce the person's body temperature with cool cloths or even a bath
• Do NOT give the person fluids