How to Stay Safe in Extreme Heat

Southwest Michigan, along with much of the rest of the United States, has been experiencing a heat wave, and over the next few days, high temperatures will continue across the region.

Dr. Wael Hakmeh, a Bronson Emergency physician, reminds the community of the dangers associated with temperatures reaching the high 90s. “As the temperatures and humidity rise in our area, it’s important to take precautions and be able to identify signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.”

As you prepare for the next few days, here are some things Dr. Hakmeh encourages everyone to keep in mind:

Five Simple Tips to Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated is essential for your health. The American Heart Association (AHA) warns that severe dehydration can lead to headaches, swollen feet, and even life-threatening conditions like heat stroke.

Read more about how to stay hydrated

• Stay hydrated – Be sure to drink plenty of water and include fluids that have electrolytes. When we sweat, we lose electrolytes.
• If you have to be outside – Be sure to take plenty of breaks. Apply plenty of sunscreen and take time to find a cool area to let your body cool off.
• Avoid overdressing – Sometimes people wear extra layers when working out to get a better sweat, which can very easily lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

Certain individuals are more prone to heat exhaustion and heat stroke due to the medications they are taking. Certain drugs can cause dehydration and or impair the body’s ability to sweat properly. If your body can’t sweat, it is unable to release heat which can lead to serious health issues. Elderly individuals are at particular risk for heat-related health issues. “We worry about older individuals. It’s important that we check on friends, neighbors and loved ones to make sure they are feeling well and have air conditioning and fluids,” says Dr. Hakmeh.

If you are experiencing muscle cramps, dizziness, a headache, a rapid pulse or low blood pressure, you should move out of the heat to a cool place immediately and make sure to hydrate well, advises Dr. Hakmeh.