Tips on how to stay safe in extreme heat conditions
JACKSON, Tenn. — The summer heat is here and West Tennesseans are doing their best to stay cool.
Chief Meteorologist, Joel Barnes, predicted Monday that the heat index could feel between 105 to 110 degrees most of the afternoon. Tuesday, we find that prediction to be true.
According to Epic Insider, high temperatures kill hundreds of people every year.
They also state that heat-related deaths and illnesses are preventable, yet more than 600 people die from extreme heat every year.
Jackson Madison County Regional Health Department‘s Public Information Officer, Ginger Rowsey, said that it’s important that residents keep as cool as possible.
“When we have extreme heat like we’re having, it can be dangerous to everyone, but especially those high risk groups which are older adults, very young children and those that have to work outside. Whether it’s construction workers or athletes who are preparing for practice and games. Especially those at risk groups. We want to be checking up on them, making sure they’re getting enough fluid throughout the day and avoiding those extremely high temperatures,” said Rowsey.
Rowsey stated several methods for us to use in the scorching heat.
“Any kind of cold compress, you can put– if you want to cool yourself with a damp towel to wear around your neck, I’ve seen people do that. The neck gators are very popular. Anything like that can help to cool your body temperature down a little bit. A big step is avoiding your strenuous physical activity in a really hot part of the day,” said Rowsey.
She told us that one of the signs that shows you’re facing heat stress is muscle cramps.
“If you start having those, that could be a sign that you’re beginning to get into some heat-related illness there. You’re facing heat stress. So, if you have those muscle cramps, you need to stop what you’re doing, move to a cool place, drink some water and rest until those spasms and cramps go away,” said Rowsey.
Rowsey also said that drinking water is not just for hot weather conditions.
“Also, after you get home, continue drinking that water. A lot of people show up to a sporting event or work and they’re already dehydrated that morning. So drink in the evening. Drink that water so you stay hydrated and are not dehydrated when you’re starting the day,” said Rowsey.
Another tip is to make sure that you schedule outside activities carefully and take cool showers or baths to cool down.
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