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.