A Excessive Heat Warning has been issued for your area
Temperatures are forecast to be in the 90s for much of Vermont this weekend into early next week (June 30 - July 2). Heat can cause serious illness and can be deadly. Especially since an extended period of hot weather is uncommon in Vermont, taking some basic precautions can help you stay safe and healthy.
During hot weather, it’s important to drink more fluids than usual, take extra breaks from strenuous activities, seek shade and cool indoor locations, and check in on loved ones and neighbors.
The Hazards of Excessive Heat
· In the northeast, the risk for heat-related illnesses and even death increases as temperatures reach the mid-to-upper 80s and warmer, especially on sunny, humid days. This makes it harder for your body temperature control systems to keep up and your body temperature can get dangerously high.
· Muscle cramps, heavy sweating, nausea, headache or light-headedness may all indicate a heat illness. Most heat illnesses can be treated with fluids and by resting in a cooler place. If symptoms persist or get worse, or someone you are with seems confused or loses consciousness, dial 9-1-1 and get immediate medical help. Learn more about symptoms and first aid at www.weather.gov/safety/heat-illness.
· Certain individuals are at higher risk. People who work or exercise outdoors, older adults and young children, people who are overweight or have a chronic medical condition, people taking certain medications, and people using drugs or alcohol should take extra precautions.
HERE ARE SOME SAFETY TIPS TO BEST COPE WITH THE DANGERS OF HEAT:
· NEVER leave children, people with disabilities, older adults, or pets in parked vehicles. “Look Before You Lock!”
· Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing to reflect heat and sunlight.
· Drink plenty of water, or non-alcoholic and decaffeinated fluids.
· Seek relief in air-conditioned spaces or other cool and shady places.
· Limit outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day.
· Close window shades during the day, keep windows closed when it is hotter outside than inside, and avoid using appliances and lights that generate heat, if possible.
· Check on loved ones and neighbors, especially those living alone and without air conditioning.
The National Weather Service in Burlington, Vermont will issue a Heat Advisory when the forecasted Heat Index (Apparent Temperature) is expected to be 95 to 104°F for several hours or more and an Excessive Heat Watch/Warning when the forecasted Heat Index is expected to be 105°F or warmer for several hours or more. The Heat Index is a measure of how hot it really feels when relative humidity is factored in with the actual air temperature.
Heat Safety Resources
Vermont Department of Health - healthvermont.gov/climate/heat
NOAA’s Weather Ready Nation Heat - www.weather.gov/safety/heat
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/index.html
FEMA Extreme Heat - ready.gov/heat
For more information and forecasts
www.weather.gov/aly (forecast office for Windham and Bennington Counties)
www.weather.gov/btv/ (rest of the state)
www.facebook.com/NWSAlbany
www.facebook.com/NWSBurlington/
twitter.com/NWSAlbany
twitter.com/NWSBurlington
Heat can cause serious illness. Heat illnesses can be deadly. On very hot days, sometimes your body temperature control systems can't keep up and your body temperature can get dangerously high. This makes you at greater risk for serious heat illnesses, including heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat stroke is a life-threatening emergency. Dial 9-1-1 or get immediate medical help if you are concerned about your health or someone else's health when it's hot outside.
For more visit: http://www.healthvermont.gov/health-environment/climate-health/hot-weather