How to Stay Safe During Extreme Heat Waves

Residents in affected regions face increased health risks from prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures, requiring immediate awareness of heat stroke symptoms and emergency cooling procedures.

• •Heat stroke victims typically have a core body temperature of 108 degrees.
• •There is a 30-minute window to lower a heat stroke victim's temperature below 104 degrees to improve survival outcomes.
• •The primary treatment for heat stroke is immediate immersion in cold water before transport to a hospital.
• •Heat domes are high-pressure systems that trap hot air and humidity, causing temperatures to rise and air to dry out.
• •El Niño is cited as a likely factor contributing to the strength and persistence of current heat waves.
• •Warning signs of heat stroke include dizziness, headache, nausea, severe fatigue, confusion, and loss of consciousness.
• •Individuals with heart disease, high blood pressure, or higher body mass index are at increased risk for heat-related illness.
• •Some medications for heart disease and high blood pressure interfere with the body's ability to regulate heat.
• •Nighttime temperatures are rising faster than daytime temperatures, preventing the body from recovering from daytime heat.
• •Preventative measures include staying out of the sun, drinking water or electrolyte drinks, wearing light-colored clothing, and taking frequent breaks.