HEAT/DROUGHT SAFETY

Heat Safety

Keep healthy during Commerce's sweltering summer heat with these suggestions.

Slow down. Reduce your level of physical activity, your body can't work as well in h8igh temperatures.

Drink plenty of water when exposed to continuous heat.

Don't let the elderly or disabled persons be exposed to the sun's full heat. They should be checked often if they don't have air conditioners.

Never - Never leave children or pets alone in a vehicle, even with the windows cracked.

Heat Related Health Problems

Heat Rash: also known as Prickly Heat, occurs in hot, humid environments where sweat can't easily evaporate from the skin. This condition produces a rash which in some cases causes severe pain. Rest often in cool places and bathe regularly making sure to thouroughly dry skin.

Heat Cramps: painful muscle spasms  that result from the loss of salt and electrolytes from excessive sweating. Cramps usually affect the legs, stomache, and arms. This condition can be treated by drinking fluids that contain electrolytes such as calcium, sodium and potassium. This condition usually precedes heat exhaution.

Heat Exhaustion: symptoms include dizziness, nausea and headache. Lay person down in a cool place, slightly raise the feet, and give small sips of water.

Heat Stroke: Life-threatening condition with symptoms including temperature of 104 degrees or more, diminished sweating, shallow breathing. Call 9-1-1 and sponge person continually with cold water.