Lincoln, RI (PRWEB) July 06, 2012
A dangerous and deadly heat wave continues to smother much of the country, with more record-breaking temperatures forecast through the weekend. News reports indicate at least two people have died as a result of the extreme temperatures so far, so Amica Insurance is sharing this list of symptoms of heat-related illness and some important safety tips.
?Extreme heat affects all of us but the most vulnerable are the elderly, those who work or exercise outdoors, infants and children, the homeless or poor, and people with a chronic medical condition,? said Christopher J. Portier, a spokesman for the U.S. Centers for Disease Control. ?Taking precautions to stay cool, hydrated and informed helps to prevent serious health effects, such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke during extreme heat.?
Some symptoms of heat-related illness include nausea, dizziness and heavy sweating. Get victims to a cool, shady area as soon as possible and provide cool, nonalcoholic beverages, according to the CDC. If the person is having trouble breathing, loses consciousness or vomits, call 911 immediately. He or she may be suffering from heat stroke, which can be life-threatening.
The CDC recommends air conditioning as the best way to prevent heat-related illness and death. People who don?t have air conditioning at home may want to seek relief with family members or friends, or even at a local mall. Many communities also offer heat-relief shelters.
The CDC also offers these safety tips for dealing with the heat:
