BOISE, Idaho — Temperatures are expected to hit triple digits this weekend, and many Idahoans are preparing for the heat. Healthcare officials urge the public to take care of themselves in hot weather, as heat-related illnesses can occur.
According to the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare (IDHW), the Division of Public Health has been notified of the first two heat-related deaths in the state. Both cases were people over the age of 60.
“Please stay safe if you head outdoors this summer,” said Dr. Christine Hahn, Idaho public health medical director. “Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen and a hat with a brim, and be aware that even if it’s cool in the morning temperatures can rise a lot during the day this time of year.”
IDHW reminds residents of Idaho that anyone can get heat-related illnesses, but those at greater risk are young kids, older adults, and those with underlying health issues or those who take certain medications.
IDHW wants residents to be aware of the symptoms of heat-related illnesses and how to treat them:
- Heatstroke: this is the most series type, a medical emergency. Symptoms include high body temperature, hot red skin, confusion or seizures, nausea, dizziness and fainting. Get medical care as quickly as possible, and move to a cooler place. Use cool, wet clothes or ice on the head, neck, armpit, and groin or soak clothing in cool water or a cool bath. Do not give them something to drink, as they may not be able to swallow it properly and could inhale the liquid.
- Heat exhaustion: may occur before a heat stroke. Symptoms may include tiredness, weakness, irritability, thirst, headache, nausea, muscle cramps, and cold, clammy skin. Move to a cooler place, loosen clothes, and use cool clothes or a cool bath to lower body temperatures. Sip cool water frequently. If vomiting happens, call 911. If symptoms last longer than an hour, call 911.
There are several ways to prevent heat-related illness, including staying cool and drinking lots of water.
Other tips provided by IDHW include:
- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing
- Limit outdoor activity to the coolest hours of morning and evening
- Stop activity and get into shade if your heart is pounding and you are gasping for breath
- Avoid hot and heavy meals
- Drink plenty of fluids -- at least one cup of water every 15–20 minutes for moderate activities lasting less than two hours. Don’t wait until you are thirsty to drink.
- Avoid alcohol and drinks with high caffeine or sugar
- Replace salt and minerals with a low-sugar sports drink. Talk to your doctor first if you are on a low-salt diet, have diabetes, high blood pressure, or other chronic conditions.
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and wear sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher. Reapply sunscreen if you will be outside longer than two hours.
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