Hot Weather Health Information

Know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Heat Exhaustion

Signs of mild heat illness include:
- Rapid heart beat and shallow breathing
- Heavy sweating
- Extreme weakness
- Dizziness
- Nausea, vomiting
What to do if you or someone is experiencing mild heat illness:
- Remove excess clothing.
- Rest in a cool area.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Take a cool shower, bath or sponge bath.

Heat Stroke

Heat stroke happens when the body cannot control temperature, which can lead to death or disability. Signs of heat stroke include:
- Having a 103 degree temperature or above
- Confusion
- Rapid pulse
- Loss of coordination
- Hot, dry skin or profuse sweating
- Throbbing headache
- Seizures, coma
What to do if you or someone is experiencing heat stroke:
- Call 911
- Move to a cool, shaded area
- Offer water
- Offer a cool shower, bath or sponge bath

Extreme heat can be dangerous, so make sure to follow the tips below to stay cool:

STAY HYDRATED. This may be one of the most important things to do in extreme heat. Make sure to drink lots of fluids, even if you aren’t thirsty. Drinking water is the best option because the sugars in other drinks, like sports drinks, can de-hydrate you.
Stay inside and out of the sun if possible, especially during mid-day between 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. when it is the warmest.
If you must go outside, put on and re-apply sunscreen often, wear a hat, and wear lightweight and light colored clothing that is loose-fitting.
Avoid turning on your oven or stove if possible.
Only open doors and windows during the coolest part of the night.
Make DIY cool packs: freeze wet washcloths or fill a sock with rice, tie in a knot, and then freeze. You can also mix 1 part hand sanitizer to 3 parts water and freeze in a ziplock bag (double bagged if possible).
Take a cool shower or bath.
Place a bowl of ice in front of a fan for DIY A/C.
Mist your top sheet with water before going to bed - this will make it cooler while you sleep.