Stay safe in the summer's sweltering heat Published July 9, 2010 By 341st Missile Wing Safety Officer MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. -- We are often fascinated by statistics. Thrilled when they reflect some greatness in our society and records set by our heroes; saddened when they reflect destruction or death. The following statistics reflect the later - from 1979-2003, excessive heat exposure caused 8,015 deaths in the United States. Now, that in itself doesn't seem too awfully bad, until you add this - During this period, more people in this country died from extreme heat than from hurricanes, lightning, tornadoes, floods and earthquakes combined. Somehow our minds wouldn't think heat exposure should be that serious. We all have air conditioning...we all have a fan...we seek shelter when it's too hot, right? Unfortunately, we don't. Let's examine some of the major issues involving heat. A major point is understanding what happens to the body. People suffer heat-related illness when their bodies are unable to compensate and properly cool themselves. The body normally cools itself by sweating. But under some conditions, sweating just isn't enough. In such cases, a person's body temperature rises rapidly. Very high body temperatures may damage the brain or other vital organs. Several factors affect the body's ability to cool itself during extremely hot weather. When the humidity is high, sweat will not evaporate as quickly, preventing the body from releasing heat quickly. Other conditions related to risk include age, obesity, fever, dehydration, heart disease, mental illness, poor circulation, sunburn, and alcohol use. Hot Weather Health Emergencies Heat Cramps: Painful spasms, mostly in legs and abdomen, usually the result of heavy exertion and heavy sweating. What to do: Apply firm pressure to cramping muscles or gently massage to relieve spasms. Replace fluids. Consult your health care provider. Heat Exhaustion: Typically occurs when people exercise heavily or work in a hot, humid place where body fluids are lost through heavy sweating. What to do: Lie down in a cool place. Loosen clothing. Apply cool wet cloths. Fan, or move the person to an air-conditioned place. Take sips of water. Consult your health care provider. Heat Stroke: A medical emergency - the body's temperature control system, which produces sweat to cool the body, stops working. What to do: Heat stroke is a severe medical emergency. Call 911 or emergency medical services to get the person to a hospital immediately. Move to a cooler environment. Try a cool bath or sponging to reduce body temperature. Use fans and/or air conditioners to cool the body. Do not give fluids. The best defense is prevention. Some prevention tips: - Drink more fluids (non-alcoholic), regardless of your activity level. Don't wait until you're thirsty to drink. - Don't drink liquids that contain alcohol or large amounts of sugar. These actually cause you to lose more body fluid. Also, avoid very cold drinks, because they can cause stomach cramps. - Stay indoors and, if at all possible, stay in an air-conditioned place. If your home does not have air conditioning, go to the shopping mall or public library. Even a few hours spent in air conditioning can help your body stay cooler when you go back into the heat. - Electric fans may provide comfort, but when the temperature is in the high 90s, fans will not prevent heat-related illness. Taking a cool shower or bath, or moving to an air-conditioned place is a much better way to cool off. - Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. - Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle. - Although any one at any time can suffer from heat-related illness, some people are at greater risk than others. Check regularly on: -Infants and young children -People aged 65 or older -People who have a mental illness. -Those who are physically ill, especially with heart disease or high blood pressure In short, heat illness is preventable. The statistics shouldn't be that high. Follow the simple rules and respect mother nature! Sources: 1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 2. Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS)