BUFFALO, N.Y. — Temperatures are expected to reach in the 90s this week and people will be seeking relief from the heat.
Prolonged exposure to the heat can cause heat stroke or heat exhaustion.
Here are some symptoms of heat-related illnesses from the New York State Department of Health:
Heat Stroke:
- Hot, dry, red skin
- Rapid pulse
- High body temperature ≥ 105°
- Loss of alertness
- Confusion
- Unconsciousness or coma
- Rapid and shallow breathing
If you, or someone you know, experience any of these symptoms, the health department says to call 911, cool the person down quickly by brining them to a cool place or use a cool bath. You can also wrap ice packs in cloth and place on neck, wrists, ankles or armpits. Remove clothing and wrap person in cool, wet sheets.
Heat Exhaustion:
- Heavy sweating
- Fainting
- Vomiting
- Cold, pale, clammy skin
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Nausea
- Weakness
If you or someone you know are experiencing heat exhaustion, you should move the person to a cool place, apply cool, wet cloths to neck, face and arms, have the person sip water slowly; a half-cup water every 15 minutes up to a quart.
Here are some tips from the New York State Department of Health to help deal with the heat:
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, but avoid alcohol, caffeine and sugary drinks.
- Not all methods for staying cool during a heat wave are effective. Using a fan can be more harmful than helpful when indoor air is hotter than your body temperature. Know when it's too hot for a fan.
- Take regular breaks when working or playing outdoors and avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day (between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.).
- Plan ahead for heat waves or when indoor temperatures pose a risk of heat-related illness, especially if you are an older adult or family caregiver.
- Make sure that you can open your windows and/or that your air conditioner is working properly.
- Talk to your doctor or pharmacist to learn more about medications that might make you sensitive to the sun or heat.
The City of Buffalo and the Town of Tonawanda have opened cooling centers for people to escape the high temperatures.
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