| OHCC LIVING | MAY 2022 | 5
As temperatures begin to rise, please keep in mind the dangers of
heat-related illness that include heat stroke or heat exhaustion which
occur when the body is unable to properly cool itself down. This can
cause damage to the brain and vital organs. Factors that increase
the risk of developing a heat-related illness include age, dehydration,
obesity, chronic medical conditions, prescription drug and alcohol
use.
Steps you can take to prevent heat-related illness include wearing
lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing, staying hydrated,
staying cool indoors and limiting physical exertion. Symptoms of
heat-related illness are elevated body temperature (above 103 F
degrees), dizziness, headache, clammy skin, nausea and vomiting,
confusion, fast or slow pulse and losing consciousness. For a complete
list of symptoms visit the Center for Disease Control website https://
www.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/warning.html.
If you witness someone exhibiting any of the above symptoms
immediately call 9-1-1. If possible, move the person to a cooler
location and loosen any restrictive clothing. Gradually cool the
body down with cool compresses or a cool bath. These steps can
potentially save lives.
Heat-related illness not only applies to people, but to your pets as
well. Pets can also suffer from heat-related stress and it's helpful to
know the symptoms and actions you can take if you witness your pet
exhibiting signs of panting, excessively drooling, lethargy, etc.
If you notice any of the aforementioned symptoms it is imperative
that you take the following actions to prevent further harm or
possible death of your pet from excessive heat exposure.
• Move your pet into the shade
• Apply cool, NOT cold water over its body to gradually lower its
body temperature.
• Allow your pet to drink small amounts of cool water or lick ice
cubes
• Take your pet directly to a veterinarian.
Remember never to leave your pet in a vehicle on a warm or hot
day. The temperature considerably increases inside a vehicle within
a few short minutes. Open windows don't keep pets safe. Also
keep in mind that asphalt, cement and artificial turf can become
dangerously hot on particularly warm days. If the air temperature is
85 degrees Fahrenheit the surface temperature of asphalt, cement or
artificial turf is 135 degrees Fahrenheit. Skin damage and blistering
occurs at 125 degrees Fahrenheit. For more information regarding
the dangers of extreme heat and your pet please visit https://www.
humanesociety.org/resources/keep-pets-safe-heat.
Community Patrol Services
