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HEAT RELATED EMERGENCIES
Summers are very hot here in Las Vegas. Fire & Rescue Paramedics usually respond to a number of heat related medical calls during the summer. Here are a few safety tips related to high heat.
NEVER LEAVE CHILDREN OR PETS IN A PARKED CAR:
The temperature can rise to 135 degrees in less than 10 minutes, which can cause death to children or pets. If you see a child or pet unattended in a parked car, you should call 9-1-1 and alert authorities.
MAKE SURE YOU DRINK PLENTY OF FLUIDS:
The replacement of fluids during the summer is essential for good health. Water is usually the best fluid. Fruit drinks are also good. Sport drinks are also good, but you should drink an equal amount of plain water with sport drinks. Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages should be avoided.
MAKE SURE YOUR SKIN IS COVERED OR USE SUN BLOCK:
Excessive exposure to the sun has been linked to skin cancer. You can also suffer sunburn from exposure to the sun.
TAKE FREQUENT BREAKS IN A COOL PLACE WHEN WORKING OUTSIDE.
WEAR LIGHT CLOTHING. HIGH HEAT CAN CAUSE:
A. Dehydration - This means the body is running low on liquids. The first indicator is being thirsty or having a dry mouth and if your urine is extremely concentrated or very dark. These are all indicators that your body is suffering from dehydration. You should replace fluids as quickly as possible. To prevent dehydration, keep drinking fluids, at least eight ounces (one cup of water) every hour. If you are physically active or working outside, you should double your liquid intake.
B. Heat Exhaustion - The victim will suffer dizziness, light-headedness, and sweat profusely. Have the victim rest in a cool place and drink fluids such as water. This condition should clear in a few minutes.
C. Heat Stroke - This is a medical emergency. Usually the person will faint and may become unconscious. Their skin will be hot, red in color and the victim will not be sweating. You should move the victim to a cool place, wet the skin with wet-cool cloths, and do not give the victim anything to drink. Call 9-1-1.
MAKE SURE TO CHECK ON THE ELDERLY DURING PERIODS OF EXTREMELY HIGH HEAT.
REMEMBER THAT PETS ALSO SUFFER DUE TO THE HEAT
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