Distinguishing Between Heat Stroke and Heat Exhaustion: Essential Safety Measures During a Heatwave

Distinguishing Between Heat Stroke and Heat Exhaustion: Essential Safety Measures During a Heatwave

Heat wave alert hits the East Coast! Tempers soar above typical highs this weekend, with New York City looking at a sweltering heat index of 103, 107, and 105 degrees from Sunday to Tuesday. Washington, D.C isn't faring much better, with a forecasted heat index reaching 103, 107, and 108 degrees.

Ignoring these excessive heat warnings can be a recipe for disaster. Over 700 individuals succumb to heat-related illnesses annually, making extreme heat the deadliest weather-related hazard in the U.S, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Fifth National Climate Assessment.

So, what is a heat wave, anyway?

Let's break it down: The National Weather Service considers a heat wave as a prolonged period of abnormally high temperatures. However, definitions can differ based on region.

For instance, in the Midwest and the Northeast, temperatures of at least 90 degrees for three or more days will trigger a heat wave warning. But in places like Phoenix, constant triple-digit heat isn’t necessarily deemed a heatwave. Rather, it involves temperatures significantly above normal for several days[1].

Staying safe from heat is crucial to avoiding these statistics. Here's a list of tips from the CDC[2]:

1. Utilize sunscreen: Prevent sunburn and its associated dehydration effects by applying broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher 30 minutes before going outside.
2. Maintain hydration: Drink plenty of fluids before becoming thirsty, steering clear of excessively sugary drinks and alcohol, which can actually lead to further dehydration.
3. Limit activities outside: Cut down on exercise during heatwaves and rest frequently in shady areas. Try to stay indoors when it’s hottest, like during the daytime and at the height of the afternoon sun[2].
4. Vehicle safety: Never leave children in a parked car – even with the windows slightly open[3].
5. Monitor high-risk individuals: Those at higher risk include infants, the elderly, overweight people, people with heart conditions or high blood pressure, and those taking certain medications such as for depression or sleep disorders[4].
6. Recognize signs of illness: Heat stroke symptoms include a body temperature of 103 degrees or higher, hot, red, dry or damp skin, rapid pulse, headache, dizziness, fainting, low energy, nausea, and confusion[4]. Heat exhaustion symptoms involve heavy sweating, cold, pale, clammy skin, fast pulse, nausea or vomiting, fatigue, headache, and sometimes fainting[4].

If you or someone you know exhibits such symptoms, contact emergency services immediately and seek shelter in a cool area. Don't forget about your furry friends! They face similar risks and require attention, too.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals offers the following tips for pet safety[5]:

1. Provide ample fresh water to prevent dehydration.
2. Avoid overexerting pets during these hot conditions.
3. Never leave pets in a parked car.
4. Watch for symptoms of overheating, such as excessive panting, increased heart and respiratory rate, and drooling.

Pets with flat faces, such as pugs, may struggle more to cool themselves, elevating their heat stroke risk[5]. Consider keeping such pets inside as much as possible, especially during the hottest parts of the day.

Kyle Reiman contributed to this report.

[1] National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Weather Service, Heat Waves: General Information. (n.d.). Retrieved June 21, 2023, from https://www.weather.gov/safety/heat-wave

[2] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Heat-related illnesses. (2022, May 16). Retrieved June 21, 2023, from https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/heat-related-illnesses.html

[3] U.S. National Library of Medicine, Medlineplus, Child in hot car. (2020, July 10). Retrieved June 21, 2023, from https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000053.htm

[4] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Extreme heat: Stay cool. (2022, July 25). Retrieved June 21, 2023, from https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/stay-cool.html

[5] American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Keep pets safe during summer heat. (n.d.). Retrieved June 21, 2023, from https://www.aspca.org/news/keep-pets-safe-during-summer-heat

1. The excessive heat across the East Coast underscores the significance of understanding climate change, a critical aspect of environmental science, as it can influence weather patterns and weather-related hazards.
2. To counteract the potential deterioration in health and wellness during a heat wave, integrating workplace-wellness programs could help promote awareness and implement safety measures in various workplaces.
3. In addition to skin care, maintaining proper nutrition and fitness-and-exercise routines are essential for overall health during extreme heat conditions, as they support the body's ability to cope and recover.
4. Meanwhile, therapies-and-treatments like air conditioning or cold baths can provide immediate relief for those experiencing heat-related illnesses.
5. However, it's crucial to remember that not all regions have access to these resources equitably, which could worsen the impact of climate change on public health.
6. Pets are also susceptible to heat-related risks, making it essential to adapt their care routines during hot weather by providing ample fresh water and limiting outdoor activities.
7. Moreover, adhering to sport safety guidelines, such as hydrating adequately and learning symptoms of heat exhaustion, can help athletes and sports enthusiasts stay healthy during hotter months.
8. As the prevalence of heat waves omnipresently increases due to climate change, incorporating these tips into our everyday lifestyles becomes ever more crucial for preserving our own health, the health of our loved ones, and the health of the environment in which we all reside.

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