With high temperatures and humidity expected throughout the area in the next several days, Public Health officials are asking residents to make every effort to stay cool during this heatwave. Extreme hot temperatures can be dangerous and even deadly. Door County Health Department Public Nurse Katie Van Laanen shares some tips to beat the heat.
Van Laanen adds that you should watch for symptoms of heatstroke or dehydration like dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. She says no pets or children should ever be left in vehicles for any amount of time.
Tips provided by the Department of Health Services
Follow these tips to stay safe during extreme heat:
• Stay in air conditioning. When possible, stay in air conditioning on hot days. If you don’t have air conditioning, head to libraries, malls, and other public spaces to keep cool.
• Check on loved ones. Be sure to check on older friends and neighbors who live alone and don’t have air conditioning.
• Avoid going outside during the hottest part of the day. If you have to be outside, stick to the cooler morning and evening hours. Wear light, loose clothing and take frequent, air-conditioned breaks.
• Beware of hot cars. Never leave a person or a pet in a parked car, even for a short time. On an 80 degree day, the temperature inside a car can reach 100 degrees in less than 10 minutes.
• Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water on hot days. Avoid alcohol and hot, heavy meals. Watch your local weather forecasts so you can plan outdoor activities safely. Pay attention to any extreme heat alerts.
Remember that anyone can get sick from the heat. In Wisconsin, people ages 15-34 are the most likely to go to the emergency room for getting sick from the heat. No matter your age or how healthy you are, it’s important to stay cool and hydrated and check the forecast before heading outside.
If you start feeling overheated, weak, dizzy, nauseated or have muscle cramps, you could be experiencing heat illness. Move to air conditioning, drink water, get under a fan, and put on cool washcloths. If your symptoms worsen or don’t improve, go to the emergency room.
