Beat the Heat Tips from the Red Cross

Red Cross Encourages Taking Steps to Prevent Heat-Related Illness
American Red Cross
Release Date and Time: 07-29-2009 03:59:00 PM


SEATTLE, July 29, 2009 — As record breaking temperatures continue in the Northwest, the American Red Cross encourages individuals and families to take the necessary precautions for excessive heat in the coming days.

The very young and the elderly are especially vulnerable to the heat so it is important that families and friends check on them regularly. People with chronic health issues are also at greater risk and need to take special care to stay healthy in the heat.

Preventing Heat-Related Illness There are several precautions you can take to avoid heat-related injury and illness.

• Dress for the heat. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing (light colors reflect away some of the sun's energy) and use a hat or an umbrella.

• Carry water or juice with you and drink frequently, even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which dehydrate the body. Make sure to check on youth and elderly to make sure they have enough fluids.

• Eat small meals and eat more often. Avoid foods that are high in protein, which increases metabolic heat.

• Avoid using salt tablets unless directed by a physician.

• Avoid strenuous activity. If you must do something physically demanding, do it during the coolest part of the day, which is usually between 4:00 and 7:00 a.m.

• Stay indoors as much as possible.

• Take regular breaks when engaging in physical activity on warm days. Take time out to find a cool place.

• Watch for signs of heat stroke: Heat stroke is life-threatening. The person's temperature control system, which produces sweating to cool the body, stops working. The body temperature can rise so high that brain damage and death may result if the body is not cooled quickly. Signals of heat stroke include –

· Hot, red, and usually dry skin, but in some cases such as during athletic activity while wearing a helmet, the skin may be moist ? Changes in consciousness

· Rapid, weak pulse, and

· Rapid, shallow breathing. Call 9-1-1 or your local EMS number.

· Move the person to a cooler place.

· Quickly cool the body by wrapping wet sheets around the body and fan it. If you have ice packs or cold packs, place them on each of the victim's wrists and ankles, in the armpits and on the neck to cool the large blood vessels. o Watch for signals of breathing problems and make sure the airway is clear.

· Keep the person lying down. For more safety tips please visit www.seattleredcross.org. For First Aid and CPR classes in King County, please call (206) 726-3534 or visit www.seattleredcross.org.