XENIA — Greene County Public Health officials are reminding residents about the dangers of high temperatures.

Beginning this weekend on Sunday, June 11, afternoon temperatures are expected to reach 90 degrees and last for several days.

GCPH reports that on average, 675 deaths from extreme heat events occur each year in the United States.

According to GCPH officials, the most vulnerable are the elderly, those who work or exercise outdoors, infants and children, the homeless or poor, and people with a chronic medical condition.

Health officials offer the following precautions to prevent serious health effects such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke:

Stay cool

• Stay in air-conditioned buildings, like local libraries.

• Do not rely on a fan as a 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 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 family, friends and neighbors are drinking enough water.

Stay informed

• Check local news for extreme heat warnings and safety tips.

• Visit www.gcph.info to find local information and tips for preventing heat sickness.

• Keep friends, family and neighbors aware of weather and heat safety information.

Additionally, GCPH encourages all residents to learn the signs and first aid response for heat-related illness. Warning signs and symptoms vary but may include:

Heat Exhaustion Symptoms

• Heavy sweating

• Weakness

• Skin cold, pale, and clammy

• Weak pulse

• Fainting and vomiting

What to Do

• Move to a cooler location.

• Lie down and loosen clothing.

• Apply cool, wet cloths to as much of body as possible.

• Sip water.

• If person has vomited and it continues, seek medical attention immediately.

Heat Stroke Symptoms

• High body temperature (above 103 degrees Fahrenheit)*

• Hot, red, dry or moist skin

• Rapid and strong pulse

• Possible unconsciousness

*104 degrees Fahrenheit taken rectally is the most accurate

What to Do

• 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.

GCPH officials offer one more tip:

“Finally, remember to never leave children alone in a vehicle. If you see a child alone in a car, call 9-1- 1 and try to get them out safely. Always look before you lock,” they said.

For more information on extreme heat, call GCPH at 937-374-5600 or visit www.gcph.info or www.cdc.gov/extremeheat.

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News-Current Report

Story courtesy of Greene County Public Health.