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Crete, NE 68333-2562
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Extreme Hot Weather - Health Hazards and Safety Tips

When people think of extreme natural hazards, they often think of tornados, floods and hurricanes. However, in a study completed in 2008 at the University of South Carolina, researchers found that extreme heat and related conditions caused the highest percentage of "natural hazard" deaths nationwide from 1970 to 2004.

When the temperatures soar, the body has a hard time regulating temperature and hydration. Dehydration and heat stroke can occur quickly, especially in children, elderly, and those whose bodies are already weakened by disease or illness. To avoid becoming a "heat casualty", check out these helpful tips:

1. Pay attention to the weather forecast (temperature, humidity, heat index). If extreme summer weather is coming, make sure you are ready for it.
2. Find out where your community's "cooling center" is, in case the electricity goes out.
3. Have your air conditioner checked before the hot weather comes. A/C repair companies get pretty busy during heat waves, so try to avoid having to be on their waiting list during an extreme heat event.
4. Make sure you always have lots of clean water on hand to stay hydrated.
5. Avoid planning outdoor activities on days when the heat index is expected to be very high.
6. If you do go outdoors, wear light colors, and try to stay in the shade if possible. Wear sunscreen to avoid sunburn, which can speed up dehydration and interfere with the body's ability to cool itself off.
7. Drink plenty of water and eat light, nutritious meals. It is important to do both, because drinking water without getting the proper nutrients can actually deplete the body of the energy it needs to function in hot weather.
8. Avoid sugary, carbonated, caffeinated, and alcoholic drinks - these can make dehydration worse.
9. Be aware of the telltale signs that the heat is getting to you or your family (look out for each other, too!):
   • You've stopped sweating even though It's still hot.
   • Your face is very red, hot and dry.
   • You are feeling dizzy and/or weak.
   • You are having stomach cramps.

***These are signs that you are getting dehydrated, and that your body is being affected by heat and dehydration. If you are able, get out of the heat right away and drink water or a beverage with electrolytes in it. If you feel too sick to do this, seek medical attention right away.

For more information, call PHS at 888-310-0565, or check out these links:

CDC's Emergency Preparedness and Response - Extreme Heat

EPA's Natural Disasters and Weather Emergencies - Extreme Heat