Regional Homeland Security Coordinating Committee

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Safety Tips from the Heart of America Metro Fire Chiefs Council

HEAT RELATED ILLNESSES AND THEIR SYMPTOMS

SUNBURN - Redness and pain in the skin. In severe cases there is are also swelling, blisters, fever and headaches.
HEAT CRAMPS - Heavy sweating and painful spasms usually in the leg or abdominal muscles.
HEAT EXHAUSTION - The person is weak and sweats heavily; the skin is cold, pale and clammy. The pulse becomes thready and fainting and vomiting also accompany heat exhaustion.
HEATSTROKE/SUNSTROKE - High body temperature (106 degrees or higher) along with hot dry skin and a rapid and strong pulse. Unconsciousness is possible.

WHAT TO DO WHEN HEAT WAVES STRIKE

Increase your intake of non-alcoholic, non-carbonated, caffeine-free beverages such as water and juice.
Wear clothing that is light in color and loose fitting.
Avoid the outdoors during extreme heat. stay out of the sun.
Stay in an air-conditioned environment if possible. Shopping malls offer relief if your home is not air conditioned.
Check On the elderly. They are especially susceptible to heat related illness.
Eliminate strenuous activity such as running, biking and lawn care work when it heats up.

Eat less foods that increase metabolic activity/heat. Proteins are an example. Increased metabolic heat increases water loss.

Contacts:
Floyd Peoples, Chief Fire Marshal, Kansas City, Mo., Fire Department, 816-784-9100
Heart of America Metro Fire Chiefs Council, 9550 W. 95th St., Overland Park, Kan. 66212