Summer is here and the temperatures are rising, dangerously. The next couple of weeks, forecasters are predicting relentless temperatures, while heat index values may not be exceptionally noticeable, actual temps will soar, with no cool down or rain in sight.
Each year more than 600 people die from heat-related illnesses in the United States. From 2010 – 2017, Oklahoma saw 145 deaths associated with excessive heat exposure. Reports show that 70 percent of those deaths occurred in males.
The Oklahoma State Department of Health says that heat-related illness can range from a heat rash, heat cramps, and heat exhaustion to hyperthermia (overheating) and heat stroke. A heat stroke occurs when the body is unable to cool itself sufficiently and it can result in severe organ damage or even death.
Heat related illnesses and death are preventable. It is important to be aware and recognize the signs of heat stroke and heat exhaustion and to react quickly. With heat exhaustion symptoms may include, heavy sweating, weakness, cold, pale and clammy skin, fast but weak pulse, nausea of vomiting, fainting, muscle cramps, headache and dizziness. With a heat stroke the body's temperature is 103 degrees or more, hot, red, dry or moist skin, rapid, strong pulse, headache, nausea, confusion, dizziness and unconsciousness. A heat stroke is a medical emergency. Call 911 immedi ately and move the person to a cooler environment. You can help reduce the person's body temperature with cool cloths or sponging with cool water.
When heat rises to the triple digits, the best thing to do is stay indoors in an air conditioned area. Increase fluid intake to two to four glasses every hour. If you know you are going to be outside, start hydrating before you ever leave the house. Wearing light colored, loose fitting clothing and always use sunscreen that is SPF 15 or higher for protection from the sun.
Limiting outdoor activities to early morning or late evening will definitely help.. While you are outside, rest often in a shade area to allow the body to cool down. Cut down on any exercise during the heat and closely monitor the more vulnerable, infants, children, the elderly, outdoor workers, athletes and even our pets. If it is unbearably hot to you, then it is for the pets too. Never leave anyone or a pet in a parked vehicle, even if the windows are cracked.
Fire danger issues will increase soon. Locally issued burn bans, some already in place, will be more forthcoming over the next week or so. Cur rently Creek County is under a burn ban excluding outdoor grilling on concrete surfaces. In Tulsa, temperatures overall have been above normal since early June. A tenth of an inch of rain was last recorded on June 10, over a month ago.