ADHS News Release:
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Staying Healthy In Arizona’s Deadly Summer Heat |
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE –
June 16, 2005
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Michael Murphy, ADHS Public Information: (602) 542-1094
David Runyan, NWS Public Information: (602) 275-7002 ext. 223 |
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With daytime temperatures stuck in the triple digits, Arizona summers turn dangerous and deadly.
Last summer, 34 Arizona residents died as a direct result of excessive exposure to heat, including three infants that were left in parked cars.
“It breaks my heart that we lost three infants to heat exposure inside parked cars last year. It’s a completely preventable tragedy,” said Susan Gerard, Director of the Arizona Department of Health Services.
Temperatures inside parked vehicles climb very rapidly. Temperatures rise approximately 20 degrees (F) in the first 10 minutes, potentially reaching more than 130 degrees in only 10 minutes. After 20 minutes, the average vehicle temperature climbs more than 30 degrees, to more than 140 degrees. Temperatures in this range can cause serious illness or even death in only a few minutes.
With the hottest summer months still on the horizon, the Arizona Department of Health and the National Weather Service are urging all residents to take precautions against dehydration and heat related illness.
"Summertime heat is the most dangerous weather phenomenon we face in Arizona,” said David Runyan, of the National Weather Service in Phoenix. The National Weather Service again will be issuing Heat Watches and Warnings to let people know which days pose the greatest risk for heat related illness.
Almost every summer day poses a threat for heat-related illness if people don’t take precautions.
People suffer heat-related illness when the body’s temperature control system is overloaded and the body can no longer cool itself. As long as blood is flowing properly to the skin, extra heat from the body is pumped to the skin and removed by sweat evaporation. If fluids are not replaced soon enough, heat stroke can result, potentially leading to brain damage or death.
Symptoms of heat illness include heavy sweating, muscle cramps, weakness, dizziness, nausea, weak but rapid pulse and headaches. People with these symptoms should find shade, drink water slowly and make sure there is good ventilation.
Staying in an air-conditioned area, either at home or in a public place such as a mall, library or recreation center is the most effective way to fight heat. If air conditioning is not available, pull the shades over the windows and use cross-ventilation and fans to cool rooms. A cool shower or bath also is an effective way to cool off. Limit use of stoves and ovens to keep home temperatures lower.
Other tips to avoid heat-related illness:
- Never leave infants, children or pets inside a parked vehicle.
- Increase fluid intake, regardless of activity level. Don’t wait until thirsty to drink fluids; drink more liquid than one’s thirst indicates.
- Avoid "heat hangover." Continue to drink fluids even after strenuous activity. This will enable the body to maintain optimum hydration, and help prevent the after effects of heat exposure such as headaches and fatigue.
- Avoid beverages containing alcohol, caffeine or large amounts of sugar as they dehydrate the body.
- Avoid very cold beverages as they cause stomach cramps.
- Limit exercise or outdoor activity between the hours of 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. when the sun is at its peak intensity. If active during this time frame, drink a minimum of 16 to 32 ounces of water each hour.
- Some medications, both prescription and over-the-counter, may increase the risk of heat related illness. Consult your physician if you have questions.
When outdoors:
- Wear a sunscreen with a minimum SPF 15. Apply at least 30 minutes prior to going outdoors, and re-apply as necessary.
- Rest frequently in shady areas so that the body’s temperature has a chance to recover.
- If unaccustomed to working or exercising in a hot environment, gradually increase the pace and limit exercise or work time.
- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing; sunglasses to protect the eyes; and a wide-brimmed hat to provide shade and keep the head cool.
- Take special precaution with infants and young children by dressing them in loose, cool clothing and shading their heads and faces with hats or an umbrella. Protect their feet with shoes.
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