Crime & Safety

Local Ambulance Co. Offers Tips on Beating the Heat

How to recognize heat-related illnesses.

This article was provided by the Community Ambulance Company and posted by Judy Mottl.

During the summer months, residents are especially vulnerable to hot weather hazards. We have noticed a recent increase in heat related illnesses throughout our EMS District.  

Below are some tips to decrease your chance of becoming a victim and to recognize the signs and symptoms of a heat emergency.

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o         If possible, stay out of the sun. When in the sun, wear sunscreen (at least SPF 15), and a hat to protect your face and head.

o         Use an air conditioner if you have one. Set the thermostat no lower than 78 degrees.

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o         If you do not have an air conditioner, consider going to a public pool, air-conditioned store, mall or movie theater.

o         Check on your neighbors, family, and friends, especially if they are seniors, young children, or have special needs.  Anyone over the age of 65 are particularly vulnerable to heat related illnesses.

o         Fans work best at night, when they can bring in cooler air from outside.

o         Drink fluids – particularly water – even if you do not feel thirsty.  Avoid beverages containing alcohol, caffeine, or high amounts of sugar.  If you are hosting a block party or attending a public event outdoors ensure to bring plenty of fluids with you and stay in a shady area.

 o         Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose clothing that covers as much of your skin as possible.

o         Never leave children, pets, or those who require special care in a parked car during periods of intense summer heat.

o         Avoid strenuous activity, especially during the sun’s peak hours – 11 AM to 4 PM. If you must engage in strenuous activity, do it during the coolest part of the day, usually in the morning between 4 AM and 7 AM.

o         Cool showers or baths may be helpful, but avoid extreme temperature changes, as they may make you nauseated or dizzy.  Be cautious of wet floors when walking in bathrooms or by pools.  Avoid slips, trips and falls while walking.

o         Monitor weather conditions by staying tuned to TV and radio broadcasts.  Make decisions based on the best information available.

*People with heart, kidney or liver disease or on fluid restricted diets should check with their doctors before increasing fluid intake.

HEAT-RELATED ILLNESSES

Prolonged exposure to the heat can be harmful and potentially fatal. Seniors, children, and people with pre- existing medical conditions are especially susceptible to the effects of extreme heat. Be aware of heat-related illnesses and suggested treatments.

HEAT EXHAUSTION

Symptoms: heavy sweating, weakness, weak pulse, fainting, or vomiting, and cold, pale, clammy skin. Body temperature may seem normal.

Response:

o         Move the victim to a cool place.

 o         Loosen clothing and apply cool, wet clothes to the neck, face, and arms.

 o         If the victim is conscious, have him or her drink water slowly, unless nausea occurs. Give the victim half a glass of water every 15 minutes.

o         Call 911 for medical attention. If heat exhaustion is not treated, it can worsen and lead to heat stroke.

HEAT STROKE (SUNSTROKE)

Symptoms: Hot, dry skin, rapid pulse, high body temperature, lack of sweating and possible unconsciousness. Body temperature can be so high that brain damage or death may result in fewer than 10 minutes if the victim does not receive immediate medical attention.

Response:

o         Call 911 immediately for medical help.

o         Remove the victim’s clothes and wrap his or her body in cool, wet sheets.

o         Bring the victim to a cool place, and try a cool bath or sponging. Use fans or air conditioners.

o         Keep the victim lying down.

 o          Do NOT give the victim any fluid.

RESPIRATORY PROBLEMS

High ozone levels, which can accompany heat waves, make air quality poor. Ozone can cause breathing problems, especially among those with respiratory conditions.

Prevention:

People who exercise or work outdoors, and those with respiratory diseases, should limit strenuous outdoor activity particularly during the afternoon and early evening hours.

The Community Ambulance Company of Sayville has been providing emergency medical services to the residents of Sayville, West Sayville, Bayport, Bohemia, and Oakdale for the past 61 years. Made up of primarily volunteers, Community Ambulance Company answered over 4,100 calls for assistance in 2012. If you are interested in joining our team and want to help your community, please contact us at 631- 567- 2586. No medical experience is necessary, and all training is provided at no cost. You can also find more information and apply for membership by visiting our website at www.communityamb.org.


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