Hot temperatures can be dangerous – leading to heat exhaustion or sometimes even more threatening, a heat stroke.
With valley temperatures soaring past 110 degrees in some places Thursday and Friday even those who are well acquainted with the North State’s hot summers should play it safe.
Warning signs of a heat stroke include a thermometer measured temperature above 103 degrees; red, hot and dry skin without sweating; rapid, strong pulse and a throbbing headache.
If a person experiences any symptoms of a heat stroke the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends calling for medical help immediately, while concurrently trying to rapidly cool the affected person with whatever means possible.
Heat exhaustion is less threatening, but can become a heat stroke if left untreated.
Telltale signs include heavy sweating; paleness; muscle cramps; tiredness and weakness, as well as headache; nausea or vomiting, and sometimes fainting.
Those with severe symptoms of heat exhaustion or those with heart problems or high blood pressure shouldn’t delay care. Otherwise, cooling measures like drinking cool non-alcoholic beverages, moving into an air-conditioned environment or taking a cool shower can offer relief.
Experts say the best way to keep yourself and loved ones safe during this week’s heat wave is staying hydrated by drinking water before thirst hits, avoiding strenuous activities, staying in cool, air-conditioned areas and checking regularly on the heat-sensitive like elderly, infants and pets.
