Pending record-setting temps require hot weather prep to stay safe

ROCHESTER, N.Y., July 19, 2011—With temperatures expected to soar into the 90s this week, not to mention the accompanying humidity, the Red Cross of the Finger Lakes NY Region is encouraging people to prepare for heat-related problems and emergencies. Below are some things to watch out for and measures individuals can take to combat the high temperatures:

Preparing for high temperatures

• Keep abreast of local weather forecasts
• Know those in your neighborhood who are elderly, young, sick or overweight. They are more likely to become victims of excessive heat and may need help.
• Be aware that people living in urban areas may be at greater risk from the effects of a prolonged heat wave than are people living in rural areas. 
• Ensure that your animals’ needs for water and shade are met.
• Take a Red Cross first aid/CPR training course to help you handle hot weather emergencies.

During high temperatures

• Never leave children or pets alone in enclosed vehicles.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol.
• Eat small meals and eat more often. 
• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays.
• Take frequent breaks if you must work outdoors.
• Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning, who spend much of their time alone or who are more likely to be affected by the heat.
• Check on your animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat.

Know emergency warning signs

• Heat cramps are muscular pains and spasms that usually occur in the legs or abdomen caused by exposure to high heat and humidity and loss of fluids and electrolytes. Heat cramps are often an early sign that the body is having trouble with the heat. 
• Heat exhaustion typically involves the loss of body fluids through heavy sweating during strenuous exercise or physical labor in high heat and humidity.
  - Signs of heat exhaustion include cool, moist, pale or flushed skin; heavy sweating; headache; nausea; dizziness; weakness; and exhaustion.
• Heat stroke (also known as sunstroke) is a life-threatening condition in which a person’s temperature control system stops working and the body is unable to cool itself.
  - Signs of heat stroke include hot, red skin which may be dry or moist; changes in consciousness; vomiting; and high body temperature.
  - Move the person to a cooler area and call 911 immediately.

For more information or to download a printable heat wave fact sheet, visit http://www.redcross.org/www-files/Documents/pdf/Preparedness/checklists/HeatWave.pdf.

About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies nearly half of the nation's blood; teaches lifesaving skills; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization—not a government agency—and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit rochesterredcross.org or join our blog at http://blog.redcross.org.