|
Heat Warning
updated: Aug 08, 2012, 4:20 PM
Source: Public Health Department
The Santa Barbara County Public Health Department is urging caution and common
sense as high temperatures are predicted particularly in inland areas of the county in
the next few days.
"The elderly are more vulnerable to temperature extremes and we need to be vigilant on
their behalf whenever possible," said Dr. Takashi Wada, Public Health Department
Director and County Health Officer. "Please check in regularly with elderly friends,
family members, and neighbors, especially when an excessive heat warning is in
effect."
Residents are strongly urged to continue to take appropriate precautions whenever
temperatures rise above 95 degrees, especially:
• Take care of those who might not be aware of the danger or be able to react
accordingly -especially the elderly, young children, and pets.
• Drink plenty of cool, non-alcoholic beverages regardless of your activity level,
especially those without sugar or caffeine. Don't wait until you're thirsty to drink. If
you have fluid restrictions from your doctor, ask to see how much you should
drink while the weather is hot.
• Take regular breaks in the shade or in an air-conditioned room. If your home
doesn't have air conditioning, go to a shopping mall or library - even a few hours
in air conditioning can help your body stay cooler. You can also take a cool
shower or bath.
• Know the signs of heat exhaustion. If someone becomes dizzy, nauseated, or
sweats heavily, find a cooler location for him or her immediately.
• Know the signs of heat stroke. Heat stroke is much more serious than heat
exhaustion. The symptoms are similar to heat exhaustion, but also include hot,
flushed skin. With heat stroke the person often stops sweating and the skin will
be unusually dry. If heat stroke is a possibility, call 911 immediately. Heat stroke
is life threatening!
3 comments on this article. Read/Add
# # # #
|
