In a state that spends nearly half of the year in below-freezing temps and gusty snowstorms, it may surprise you that heat waves cause more deaths in Wisconsin than any other weather condition. Sometimes the heat is unavoidable, especially in August. Prevent serious heat stroke or dehydration with these simple steps.
Step 1: Prepare
Now is the time to plan for periods of high temperatures.
- Keep a few bottles of water in your freezer. Should the power go out, you can move these to the fridge and keep the door shut.
- Purchase a wide-brimmed hat and loose clothing to wear on warm days.
- Quick tip: Don’t forget sunscreen and check for expiration dates!
- If you like to spend time outdoors, consider installing awnings over a porch or patio. Special light-reducing shades may cut down on heat coming in through windows, too.
Step 2: Stay Cool
The heat has hit!
- Drink at least 8 oz. of water, 8 times a day. Bring a water bottle wherever you go. Eat frequently and keep meals light and balanced.
- Quick tip: Tired of plain water? Jazz it up with sliced lemons, limes, cucumbers, melon, or fresh herbs!
- Always wear sunscreen, even on cloudy days. Sunburns slow down your body’s ability to cool itself off.
- If you take diuretics, antihistamines, or mood-altering medications, check with your doctor about side effects with sun and heat exposure.
- Complete strenuous tasks in the early morning or late evening (cooler times of the day).
- After coming in from the outdoors, place cool, wet washcloths on your forehead, neck, and wrists. Suck on ice cubes to bring your internal body temp down.
Step 3: Watch for Signs
You can go from comfortable to crisis very quickly during heat waves. Older adults and adults with chronic conditions are at a higher risk of developing symptoms from heat exposure.
Signs of Heat Exhaustion:
• Heavy sweating
• Paleness
• Dizziness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Headache
• Muscle cramps
Quick tip: Move to a cool location and slowly drink a cool beverage/suck on an ice cube. If this does not help, seek medical treatment.
Signs of Heat Stroke:
• Extremely high body temperature
• Red/hot/dry skin
• Rapid and strong pulse
• Throbbing headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea
Get medical help immediately if you have these symptoms.
Goal:
Stay cool during heat waves – one of Wisconsin’s deadliest disasters.
Things to Do:
Prepare: Invest in loose clothing, hats, sunscreen, and bottled water.
Stay cool: Drink plenty of water and use cool washcloths. Check with your doctor about side effects of medications with sun and heat exposure.
Watch for signs: Dizziness, nausea, headache, and red/hot/dry skin could all mean heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Seek medical attention.
Be Informed – Resources:
Latest news on heat waves plus tips and tricks:
www.cdc.gov/nceh/features/extreme heat/index.html
Caregivers – How can you get involved?
Always have extra water and sunscreen on-hand for your loved one. Keep cold, wet washcloths in an ice chest or insulated bag.
Traveling or going on an outing? Check ahead to see where you can rest in a cool, covered location. Cut the walking or activities in half from what you would do in normal temps. Take frequent breaks.
If your loved one lives alone, check in every day during heat waves. Look for or ask about signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
