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Maine temperatures will feel over 100 degrees the next couple days, here are some tips to keep safe in the heat

With the Maine weather hitting temps in the high 90s, it's important to remember how to stay safe in the heat

MAINE, USA — Heat illnesses account for the highest number of weather-related fatalities nationwide each year, according to data from the National Weather Service

Something to keep in mind as Maine will have temperatures that feel over 100 degrees over the next couple of days. 

WEATHER BLOG: Heat Advisory issued today as temps hit the 90s

While staying safe in the heat sounds easy enough, these steps are important reminders from Maine's Center for Disease Control: 

  • Limit time outdoors
  • Drink plenty of water
  • Take frequent breaks
  • Wear light-loose fitting clothing
  • Stay out of the direct sunlight

Most importantly, NEVER leave a child or pet in a hot car under any circumstances. The inside of your car can get nearly 30° hotter than the outside in just under a half-hour.

MAINE WEATHER FORECAST

The US Center for Disease Control has put out these guidelines:

When the temperature is very high stay indoors. If you must go outside, dress properly and take breaks often. Know who is at high risk for heat stroke and heat exhaustion.

Tips to Beat the Heat

  • Drink plenty of water!
  • Check on friends and neighbors at high risk for heat-related illness
  • Find airconditioned places to cool off (shopping malls and libraries)
  • NEVER leave kids or pets in a closed, parked vehicle
  • If you go outside, remember:

    • A hat
    • Sunscreen (spf 15 or higher)
    • Lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing
    • Water
    • Limit time outdoors. Take breaks often
  • Know who is at high risk:

    • Infants
    • Young children
    • Older adults
    • People with chronic medical conditions

Know the signs of heatstroke and heat exhaustion.

Heat Stroke

Signs & Symptoms

  • Very high body temperature (above 103°F)
  • Red, hot, and dry skin (no sweating)
  • Rapid, strong pulse
  • Throbbing headache
  • Dizziness
  • Upset stomach
  • Confusion
  • Passing out

Heat Exhaustion

Signs & Symptoms

  • Heavy sweating
  • Paleness
  • Muscle cramps
  • Tiredness
  • Weakness
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Upset stomach or vomiting
  • Fainting

If you see any of these signs, get medical help immediately.

While waiting for medical attention, you can help someone with heat stroke or heat exhaustion.

Heat Stroke

Move the victim to a shady area or indoors. Do not give the person fluids.

Cool the body by:

  • Placing person in a cool (not cold) bath or shower
  • Spraying with a garden hose
  • Sponging with cool water
  • Fanning

Continue efforts to cool the person until help arrives or his or her body temperature falls below 102°F and stays there.

Heat Exhaustion

Get medical attention if symptoms get worse or last longer than one hour.

Cool the body with:

  • Cool, nonalcoholic beverages
  • Rest
  • A cool (not cold) bath, shower, or sponge bath
  • Moving to an airconditioned room
  • Wearing lightweight clothing

Seek medical help immediately if symptoms are severe or if a victim has heart problems or high blood pressure

For more information, head on over to the Maine CDC website

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