|
 With
most of the nation in
the grip of high heat, NOAA's National
Weather Service offers relief--of sorts--over the Internet.
A new National Weather Service Web site posts information on
keeping cool, what makes a heat wave tick, precautions for the
elderly and care givers, heat forecasts, and links to other pages
to help the nation safely ride out the wave. The site is: http://weather.noaa.gov/weather/hwave.html
To better cope with the heat
and help protect family and friends, the National Weather Service
offers the following tips:
Seek out an air conditioned environment.
Avoid areas that lack sufficient ventilation.
Increase intake of beverages
such as water and juice - avoid carbonated, caffeinated, and
alcoholic drinks.
Wear clothing that is light in
color and loose fitting.
Avoid the outdoors and stay out
of the sun.
Check on the elderly - they are
especially susceptible to heat-related illnesses.
Avoid strenuous activity such
as running, biking, and yard work. Take frequent breaks.
Eat less and avoid heavy foods
that stoke the internal fire. Proteins are an example.
Heat related illnesses
and their symptoms include:
Sunburn - Redness and pain in
the skin. Severe cases also include swelling, blisters, fever,
and headaches.
Heat cramps - Heavy sweating
and painful spasms, usually in the legs or abdomen.
Heat exhaustion - Weakness and
excessive sweating. Skin is cold, pale and clammy. The pulse
becomes rapid. Fainting and vomiting are possible.
Heatstroke/Sunstroke - High body
temperature (106 degrees F or higher). Hot, dry skin and a rapid
and strong pulse. Unconsciousness is possible.
Remember: Heat-related illnesses
can be fatal. Should someone succumb to heat, immediately move
him or her to a cooler area and seek emergency medical assistance
or bring the person to the hospital. Reduce body temperature
with cool bath or sponging. |
