Extreme heat coupled with high humidity pose serious hazards to human health. With heat and humidity on the rise, the Preble County General Health District urges residents to use extra care to avoid heat-related illness. PCGHD recommends that everyone pay particular attention to the following suggestions:
It’s important to recognize when hot weather is making you sick, and to get help. Remember, heat-related symptoms can come on quickly. Symptoms of heat related illnesses include heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea or fainting. People experiencing these symptoms should be moved to a cool, shady or air-conditioned area and drink plenty of cool fluids, such as water, or drinks such as Gatorade. If not feeling better fast, call 911.
Public Health is also encouraging churches, community organizations, and neighborhood groups to check on their members most at risk for heat-related illness to ensure they are protected during the upcoming days of extreme heat. Remember, those most at risk from the heat – elderly, children, and those with medical problems – often don’t realize they are in danger.
The best defense against heat-related problems is prevention. Staying cool and making simple changes in fluid intake, activities and clothing during hot weather will help keep you safe and healthy.
Additional Heat information is available by calling the Heat Line - 1-937-913-2000.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Heat Stress in the Elderly
Federal Emergency Management Agency - Prepare for a Heat Wave
Ohio Commiittee For Severe Weather Awareness - Health and Safety Concerns - Excessive Heat
During the summer months, many Ohioans will venture outdoors to relax, grill, garden and play. At the Ohio Department of Health (ODH), we focus on protecting and improving all Ohioans’ health while they enjoy their summertime activities. This summer, follow these safety tips to help keep you and your loved ones safe.
Nothing says summer like the smoky flavor of foods cooked out on the grill. ODH reminds Ohioans that when grilling, use a meat thermometer to ensure meat and poultry are cooked thoroughly (ground beef should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F). We also recommend that cooked meat be placed on a clean platter, rather than back on the one that held the raw meat, to avoid cross-contamination. Another way to prevent foodborne illnesses is by washing your hands often, especially after using the bathroom, before and after eating or preparing food and after touching animals.
Warmer temperatures also mean the resurgence of mosquitoes. To prevent mosquito borne illnesses like West Nile Virus, use insect repellent and wear protective clothing that covers the skin. Prime mosquito-biting hours are during the early morning and late evening. You can also help keep mosquitoes off your property by removing all discarded tires and other water-holding containers, such as tin cans and unused flower pots.
Skin cancer is the most-commonly diagnosed cancer in the US, accounting for about half of all cancers. To protect yourself and family avoid being outdoors during the midday if the sun is intense, use sunscreen with at least SPF 30, cover up with clothing, wear a brimmed hat, and wear sunglasses that block UVA and UVB rays.
In 2010, more than 49 children died while alone in a vehicle. Never leave a child unattended in a vehicle, even with the window slightly open. It only takes a few short minutes before a child can become dangerously overheated.
Exposure to loud sounds, like ones caused by lawnmowers and chainsaws, can contribute to hearing loss. This summer, be sure to use hearing protection devices while doing these summer chores. Also, while using loud equipment don’t use MP3 players or other music playing devices.
Whatever your outdoor activity, have water on hand to satisfy your thirst and decrease the chances of dehydration. Avoid beverages with alcohol and drinks high in sugar since they don't fight dehydration and can make symptoms worse. Stay away from caffeinated and carbonated beverages when you feel thirsty.
Finally, while summertime offers more time for play it also offers more time for children to injure themselves. I encourage you to get involved with your child and know where they are going and what they are doing before they go out to play. It’s also important to actively supervise your child when engaging in summertime activities and make sure your child wears the proper safety equipment, such as lifejacket or bike helmet.
Enjoy the great outdoors and remember to stay safe and healthy this summer.
