Photo and information obtained from Fairfield Fire & EMS
The National Weather Service and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are reminding the public of the dangers of extreme heat and how to respond to heat-related illnesses.
During extremely hot and humid weather, the body may struggle to cool itself properly. When this happens, or when fluids and salts are lost through excessive sweating or dehydration, it can lead to heat-related illnesses. The CDC outlines several common heat-related conditions, their symptoms, and recommended first aid:
Heat Cramps
- Symptoms: Painful muscle cramps and spasms, usually in the legs or abdomen; heavy sweating.
- First Aid: Apply firm pressure or gently massage the cramping muscles. Offer sips of water unless the person feels nauseated. Seek medical attention if cramps last more than one hour.
Heat Exhaustion
- Symptoms: Heavy sweating; weakness; pale, cool, clammy skin; fast, weak pulse; muscle cramps; dizziness; nausea or vomiting; headache; fainting.
- First Aid: Move the person to a cooler location. Loosen clothing and apply cool, wet cloths or place the person in a cool bath. Offer sips of water. Get medical help if symptoms worsen or last more than one hour, or if the person begins vomiting.
Heat Stroke
- Symptoms: Throbbing headache; confusion; slurred speech; nausea; dizziness; body temperature above 103°F; hot, red, dry or damp skin; rapid pulse; fainting or unconsciousness.
- First Aid: Call 911 immediately. Move the person to a cooler place and reduce body temperature with cool cloths or a bath. Do not give fluids. A fan should only be used if heat index temperatures are below the high 90s.
Authorities stress that heat stroke is a medical emergency. Immediate response is critical.
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