Tips provided to help beat heat today

VW County Health Dept. information

The National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Warning today until 8 p.m. The maximum heat index readings Saturday are expected to range from 105 to 115. Impacts of this long period of hot and humid weather include heat exhaustion, heat illness, and heat stroke.

Signs of heat illness include nausea, general weakness, dizziness, a headache, or extreme thirst. At the first sign of symptoms, health officials stress it is important to get out of the sun and stop exertion. Drink plenty of water and non-alcoholic fluids.

Other tips to avoid heat illness include:

• Decrease physical activity.
• Use air conditioning, if available. Many public buildings, libraries, malls, and other locations are air-conditioned.
• Wear loose lightweight and light-colored cotton clothing.
* Eat light meals.
* Cool down with showers, baths, and recreational swimming. * Adjust blinds, shades, and awnings to keep out the sun.
* Use your basement, if it is cool, during the hottest hours.
• Use a circulating fan. A fan may not help unless it brings cooler air into the dwelling. Some fans may even increase heat stress in very hot weather.
• Be a good neighbor and check on those who may need assistance.
• Individuals with chronic health problems, such as heart disease or lung problems, should minimize activities because the heat will add additional stress.
• Extra caution should be taken for the elderly and young infants and children to assure that they are protected from the heat.
• Children and pets should not be left unattended in closed vehicles. Temperatures can reach dangerous levels rapidly.
• Individuals on various medications should check with their doctor to see if the heat puts them at increased risk