As Minnesota continues to experience high temperatures and humidity this summer, it’s important to be aware of the risks of heat stroke and heat exhaustion. Here are some tips from Christensen Group Insurance to help you stay safe and cool!
Tips to beat the heat
Stay indoors when it’s very hot. If you must go outside, dress properly and take breaks often. Drink plenty of water, check on at-risk friends and neighbors, and find air-conditioned places to cool off.
Never leave kids or pets in a parked vehicle, wear lightweight, light-colored clothing, and use sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher).
Be aware of who is at high risk
Infants, young children, older adults, and people with chronic medical conditions are at a higher risk of heat stroke and heat exhaustion.
Recognize symptoms
Heat stroke symptoms include: very high body temperatures (above 103°F), red, hot, dry skin, rapid pulse, throbbing headache, dizziness, upset stomach, confusion, and fainting.
If you see these signs, get medical help immediately. While waiting for medical attention, you can help someone with heat stroke by moving the person to a cool area. Do not give fluids and cool their body with water by placing them in a cool (not cold) bath or shower, spray with a garden hose, sponge with cool water, or fanning. Continue efforts to cool the person until help arrives or his or her body temperature falls below 102°F and stays there.
Heat exhaustion symptoms include: heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headache, upset stomach or vomiting, and fainting.
When you see these signs, get medical attention immediately if symptoms get worse or last longer than one hour. Cool the body with cool beverages, rest, a cool (not cold) bath or shower, moving to an air conditioned room, and wearing lightweight clothing.
Seek medical help immediately for heat stroke and heat exhaustion if symptoms are severe or persist, or if the person has heart problems or high blood pressure.
For more information on extreme heat and your health, visit the CDC website or download Christensen Group’s heat-related injury and illness prevention checklist.
