Critical Heat Safety Tips from University of Louisville’s Trauma Center

Posted on June 27, 2012 by Melissa Deaver

Extremely high or unusually hot temperatures can affect your health.

Most vulnerable are:

  • The elderly
  • Those who work or exercise outdoors
  • Infants and children
  • The homeless or poor
  • People with a chronic medical condition

The Trauma Center at University of Louisville Hospital encourages all to take the necessary precautions to prevent serious health effects such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

Stay cool

  • Stay in air-conditioned buildings
  • Do not rely on a fan as your primary cooling device
  • Limit outdoor activity, especially midday when it is the hottest part of the day, and avoid direct sunlight
  • Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing
  • Take cool showers or baths to lower your body temperature
  • Check on at-risk friends, family and neighbors at least twice a day

Stay hydrated

  • Drink more than usual and don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink.
  • Drink from two to four cups of water every hour while working or exercising outside.
  • Avoid alcohol or liquids containing high amounts of sugar.
  • Make sure your family, friends and neighbors are drinking enough water.

Stay informed

  • Check your local news for extreme heat warnings and safety tips.
  • Visit the Louisville Metro website to find local more resources to  prevent heat sickness.
  • Keep your friends, family and neighbors aware of weather and heat safety information.

Heat exhaustion symptoms

  • Heavy sweating
  • Weakness
  • Skin cold, pale, and clammy
  • Weak pulse
  • Fainting and vomiting

What you should do for heat exhaustion

  • Move to a cooler location
  • Lie down and loosen your clothing
  • Apply cool, wet cloths to as much of your body as possible
  • Sip water
  •  If you have vomited and it continues, seek medical attention immediately

Heat stroke symptoms

  • High body temperature (above103°F)*
  • Hot, red, dry or moist skin
  • Rapid and strong pulse
  • Possible unconsciousness

What you should do for heat stroke

  • Call 911 immediately — this is a medical emergency
  • Move the person to a cooler environment
  • Reduce the person’s body temperature with cool cloths or even a bath
  • Do NOT give fluids