DHMH Reminds Marylanders to Stay Safe in Hot Weather
BALTIMORE, MD (May 29, 2013) – As Maryland prepares for the first heat wave of 2013, the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene reminds Marylanders to take the necessary precautions to avoid heat- related illnesses.
“Many Marylanders can be at risk for illness during periods of extreme heat,” says Dr. Joshua M. Sharfstein, DHMH Secretary. “We want all Marylanders to arm themselves with information so they know how to stay safe this summer.”
Heat stroke is a serious illness characterized by a body temperature greater than 105 degrees. Symptoms may include dry red skin, convulsions, disorientation, delirium and coma. Onset of heat stroke can be rapid; serious symptoms can occur within minutes. Treatment involves the rapid lowering of body temperature using a cool bath or wet towels. Keep victims of heat stroke in a cool area and immediately call 911.
Heat exhaustion is a milder form of heat stroke that may develop due to a combination of several days with high temperatures and dehydration in an individual. Signs of heat exhaustion include extreme weakness, muscle cramps, nausea or headache. Victims may also vomit or faint. Heat exhaustion is treated with plenty of liquids and rest in a cool, shaded area. Those on a low-sodium diet or with other health problems should contact a doctor.
In 2012, there were 46 confirmed heat-related deaths from May through September in Maryland.
Hot weather tips:
● Drink plenty of fluids, such as water and fruit juice, to prevent dehydration. Alcohol can impair the body’s sweat mechanism, as can some common medications, such as antihistamines and diuretics.
● Wear loose-fitting, lightweight and light-colored clothes.
● Avoid direct sunlight by staying in the shade and wear sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
● Stay in air-conditioned areas when possible. If your home is not air-conditioned, consider a visit to a shopping mall or public library or stay with family or friends who have air conditioning. Contact your local health department to see if there are cooling shelters open in your area.
● NEVER leave pets or children in a car, even with the windows cracked.
● Check on elderly relatives or neighbors at least daily, and make sure they have a cool environment to live in during extreme heat.
● Take it easy when outdoors. Athletes and those who work outdoors should take short breaks when feeling fatigued. Schedule physical activity during the morning or evening when it is cooler.
Weekly Heat Reports
From the end of May through the beginning of September, DHMH monitors temperature conditions and advisories issued by the National Weather Service and alerts residents of Extreme Heat Events.
Beginning June 5, 2013, reports will be issued weekly to provide guidance and information about deaths and illness caused by extreme heat in the region. During extended Extreme Heat Events, reports will be issued daily. To see the reports, visit www.dhmh.maryland.gov/extremeheat. The site also includes the State Heat Plan and facts about heat-related illnesses.
Marylanders in need of a cooling center should contact their local health department or visit the DHMH Heat Emergency website at www.dhmh.maryland.gov/extremeheat.
Maryland residents in need of energy assistance to keep cool this summer should call 2-1-1 Maryland to see if there are resources available to help.
Additional Resources:
• Maryland Emergency Management Agency:
www.mema.state.md.us/prepared/Pages/heatdrought.aspx
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/
www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/heatstress/
• Spanish Language Resources:
www.cdc.gov/nceh/extremeheat/index_esp.html
www.epa.gov/aging/resources/factsheets/itdhpfehe/itdhpfehe_spanish_100-F-08-076.pdf
www.epa.gov/aging/resources/posters/beat-the-heat_poster_spanish_100-H-07-002.pdf
