Heat and Drought

HEAT AND DROUGHT INFORMATION AND SAFETY RULES

Summers are hot and dry, especially in the Inland Northwest where high temperatures can range from the 90s into the triple digits for several days in a row. Too much heat can be harmful to your health as it taxes the human body beyond its abilities. Doing too much on a hot day, spending too much time in the sun or staying too long in an overheated place can cause heat-related illnesses. In a normal year, about 175 Americans succumb to the demands of summer heat. Among the large continental family of natural hazards, only the cold of winter - not flooding, lightning, hurricanes, tornadoes and earthquakes - takes a greater toll.

Human bodies dissipate heat by varying the rate and depth of blood circulation, sweating and panting. Heat disorders develop when there is a reduction or collapse of these bodily systems. Ranging in severity, heat disorders share one common feature: the individual has overexposed or overexercised for his age and physical condition in the existing thermal environment. It is important to know the symptoms of heat disorders and overexposure to the sun, and be ready to give first aid treatment.

What are these painful and debilating heat disorders.

• Sunburn - Redness and pain. In severe cases swelling of the skin, blisters, fever and headaches.
• Heat Cramps - Painful spasms usually in muscles of legs and abdomen possible. Heavy sweating.
• Heat Exhaustion - Heavy sweating, weakness, skin cold, pale and clammy. Pulse thready. Normal temperature possible. Fainting and vomiting.
• Heat Stroke or Sun Stroke - High body temperature (106 degrees F or higher). Hot dry skin. Rapid and strong pulse. Possible unconsciousness.

Considering the tragic death toll and the stages of heat disorders, the National Weather Service stepped up efforts to aleart more effectively the general public and local authorities to the hazards of heat. Based on the latest research, the Heat Index was devised which takes in account both temperature and humidity to give a more apparent temperature.

When it gets hot, remember these safety rules to keep cool and safe!

• Slow down. Strenuous activities should be reduced, eliminated, or rescheduled for the coolest time of the day. Individuals at risk should stay in the coolest available place, not necessarily indoors.
• Dress for summer. Lightweight light-colored clothing reflects heat and sunlight, and helps your body maintain normal temperatures.
• Put less fuel on your inner fires. Foods (like proteins) that increase metabolic heat production also increase water loss.
• Drink plenty of water or other non-alcohol fluids. Your body needs water to keep cool. Drink plenty of fluids even if you don't feel thirsty.
• Avoid alcoholic beverages.
• Do not take salt tablets unless specified by a doctor.
• Spend more time in air conditioned places.
• Don't get too much sun. Sunburn lessens the effects of heat dissipation.

During a Drought

• Lower water use. Watering the lawn and washing the car waste water. Whenever possible, re-use water.
• Place a brick or other large, solid object in the flush tank of the toilet to reduce the water used to flush.

For more information:

• NWS Heat and Drought Awareness page