With the heat indexes reaching dangerous highs this week of over 100°, make sure to check on those who are more vulnerable to heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke - kids, elderly, pets, etc.
Extreme heat should be taken seriously. According to the American Red Cross, excessive heat has caused more deaths than all other weather events, including floods.
- Watch for heat-related stress symptoms. Educate yourself on the signs of heat exhaustion and stroke using this helpful guide.
- Obviously avoid outdoor activities, drink more water if you must be out in the heat, and try to stay cool.
- If you usually leave your dog in the garage, find a cooler place for the duration of the hot weather. Garages can soar to much higher temperatures than just outside in the driveway.
- If you (or someone you know) doesn’t have air conditioning, make plans to spend the heat of the day somewhere cool - libraries, schools, theaters, malls, etc.
- Check on neighbors who are elderly, sick or overweight that may need extra help during the heat wave. People at higher risk for heat-related illness:
- Infants and young children
- People 65 and older
- People who have a mental illness
- Those who are physically ill, especially with heart disease or high blood pressure.
Heat Wave Terms
Heat Wave - Prolonged period of excessive heat, often combined with excessive humidity. Generally temperatures are 10 degrees or more above the average high temperature for the region during summer months, last for a long period of time and occur with high humidity as well.
Excessive Heat Watch - Conditions are favorable for an excessive heat event to meet or exceed local. Excessive Heat Warning criteria in the next 24 to 72 hours.
Excessive Heat Warning - Heat Index values are forecast to meet or exceed locally defined warning criteria for at least 2 days (typically daytime highs of 105°-110° Fahrenheit).
Heat Advisory - Heat Index values are forecast to meet locally defined advisory criteria for 1 to 2 days (typically daytime highs of 100°-105° Fahrenheit)