In Southern California, despite entering September, the region has been experiencing a week-long heatwave. The website “heatreadyca.com” provides three key heat prevention measures to help people safely endure the scorching heat, which are also recommended by government agencies.
Firstly, it is essential to stay cool and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight outdoors. Try to stay in air-conditioned spaces, set the temperature at home between 75-80 degrees Fahrenheit, or seek shelter in cooling areas like local libraries, shopping centers, and community centers. Cooling Centers have been established in various counties in California; specific information can be found on the County Cooling Centers and Resources | Cal OES News website.
If you are at home, draw the blinds or curtains to prevent direct sunlight from entering. Wear loose, light-colored, and breathable clothing. You can also cool down by placing a cold, damp towel on the back of your neck or taking a cool shower to lower body temperature.
Secondly, it is crucial to maintain adequate hydration. In hot weather, drink water in small amounts throughout the day. Consider supplementing with sports drinks but avoid consuming caffeine and alcohol, as they can lead to dehydration.
Thirdly, pay attention to your family and friends, and encourage them to do the same for you. Elderly individuals are more susceptible to the effects of high temperatures as they may struggle to adapt to sudden temperature changes compared to younger individuals. Some elderly people may have chronic illnesses or take medications that affect their ability to regulate body temperature or sweat.
Elderly individuals should develop a personalized plan, prepare emergency supplies, and monitor changes in weather and temperature. It is important to be aware of symptoms that may occur in the elderly during high temperatures, such as excessive sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and headaches. Severe symptoms may include fever, confusion, and loss of consciousness.
People with chronic illnesses need to be extra cautious, as extreme heat can increase the risk of heart disease, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbations, and put additional strain on the kidneys. It can also make it harder for diabetes patients to regulate blood sugar levels, increasing the risk of complications like diabetic ketoacidosis. High temperatures may worsen symptoms in individuals with neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis (MS) and Parkinson’s disease.
Extreme heat can also exacerbate symptoms in individuals with depression/anxiety disorders. As the duration and severity of extreme heat increase, patients may experience heightened feelings of anger, sadness, stress, and anxiety. Family members or caregivers should take preventive measures in such cases.
Parents and caregivers need to be cautious, as children may experience dehydration, heat cramps, and heat exhaustion in high temperatures. Respiratory and skin diseases can also worsen. Never leave children alone in parked cars, as even with windows open, the temperature inside a car can rise nearly 20 degrees Fahrenheit within 10 minutes.
Infants and children do not sweat like adults and have a lower ability to regulate body temperature. Apply sunscreen with SPF15 or higher, monitor the time children spend outdoors, and reduce the intensity of any physical activity lasting more than 15 minutes with rest periods in between. Taking children to swim in a pool or applying a cold compress on the forehead or back of the neck can help lower body temperature if they feel overheated.
Many industries in California, including agriculture, construction, and other outdoor work sectors, have the right to protect workers from the hazards of high temperatures. Employers should provide training on heat-related symptoms and prevention. If you experience symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, or confusion, seek medical attention immediately.
If someone shows signs of heatstroke, move them to a cool place, loosen their clothing, give them small sips of water, use a cold towel or cold water bath to lower body temperature, and call 911 for assistance.