Red Cross recommends 3 simple steps to stay cool
WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) — The American Red Cross recommends taking three simple steps to stay cool as temperatures soar.
While heat can be uncomfortable, it can also turn deadly fast, especially for the elderly, small children, pregnant women, and those with chronic health issues. In Kansas, men aged 24-49 account for most heat-related emergency room visits.
To avoid a trip to the emergency room, or worse, the Red Cross recommends that people take these three steps:
Slow down by postponing or limiting outdoor activities, including strenuous exercise. If you must work outdoors, take frequent breaks and avoid the hottest part of the day by scheduling tasks earlier or later. Hot cars can be deadly — never leave children or pets in your vehicle alone.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoiding sugary, caffeinated and alcoholic drinks. Check that animals also have access to plenty of fresh water and shade.
Spend time indoors in an air-conditioned place. If you don’t have air conditioning, go to a public library, shopping mall or a public cooling center. Check with your local government or emergency management agency about potential locations. Check on loved ones and neighbors who may be at risk and do not have air conditioning to make sure they are safe.
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It’s also important to know the physical signs you may be experiencing heat-related illness or stroke. Heat cramps, heavy sweating, muscle pains, or spasms can be an early indication of heat exhaustion or stroke.
You should get to a cool place and hydrate with water or a sports drink that contains electrolytes, not energy drinks, which can actually cause dehydration. Seek medical help if the symptoms last more than an hour.
Signs of heat exhaustion can include heavy sweating, cool, pale and clammy skin, a fast or weak pulse, nausea or vomiting, muscle cramps, feeling tired or weak, headaches, dizziness, and/or fainting.
The person experiencing those symptoms should be moved to a cooler place, any tight clothing should be loosened, and they should sip water slowly. Use wet cloths, misting or fanning to help cool them off. If the symptoms last more than an hour, or they begin vomiting or acting confused, seek medical assistance immediately.
Signs of a heat stroke include a high body temperature, hot, red, dry or damp skin, a fast or strong pulse, headache or dizziness, nausea, confusion and passing out. Call 911 immediately.
The Red Cross now offers a free interactive First Aid app that offers tips and information on common emergencies.
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