It’s still hot out there, and the Central Jackson Fire Protection District has some advice to prevent heat-related illness.
- Sunburn – Redness and pain in the skin. In severe cases there are also swelling, blisters, fever and headaches.
- Heat cramps – Heavy sweating and painful spasms usually in the leg or abdominal muscles.
- Heat exhaustion – The person is weak and sweats heavily; the skin is cold, pale and clammy. The pulse becomes thready and fainting and vomiting also accompany heat exhaustion.
- Heatstroke/sunstroke – High body temperature (106 degrees or higher) along with hot dry skin and a rapid and strong pulse. Unconsciousness is possible.
What do you do when a heat wave strikes:
- Increase your intake of non-alcoholic, non-carbonated, caffeine-free beverages such as water and juice.
- Wear clothing that is light in color and loose fitting.
- Avoid the outdoors during extreme heat. Stay out of the sun.
- Stay in an air-conditioned environment if possible. Shopping malls offer relief if your home is not air conditioned.
- Check on the elderly. They are especially susceptible to heat related illness.
- Eliminate strenuous activity such as running, biking and lawn care work when it heats up.
- Eat fewer foods that increase metabolic activity/heat. Proteins are an example. Increased metabolic heat increases water loss.
