Summer officially arrived Tuesday, June 21, but people living in north Mississippi began feeling the effects of high temperatures and unsafe heat indexes last week as the National Weather Service issued a heat advisory for the Mid-South.
According to officials with the Mississippi Department of Health, there are several basic steps to keep children and adults safe in times of high heat and humidity like drinking plenty of fluids, especially water; shunning alcohol and caffeinated drinks; and avoiding sports and strenuous activity, especially after noon, when the heat is highest.
High summer temperatures bring the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, especially if you are out of doors. If you are working or exercising in the heat, or if you are an older Mississippian, know the signs of heat stroke and what to do about it.
Heat exhaustion is a milder form of heat-related illness that can develop after long exposure to high temperatures and inadequate water. Those most prone to heat exhaustion are elderly people, people with high blood pressure and people working or exercising in a hot environment.
The skin may be cool and moist during heat exhaustion. The victim's pulse rate will be fast and weak, and breathing will be fast and shallow. If heat exhaustion is untreated, it may progress to heat stroke.
Heat stroke occurs when the body's temperature rises rapidly, the sweating mechanism fails, and the body is unable to cool down. Body temperature may rise to 106 degrees or higher within 10 to 15 minutes. Heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability if emergency treatment is not provided.
Warning signs of heat exhaustion include:
• Heavy sweating
• Paleness
• Muscle cramps
• Tiredness
• Weakness
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Fainting
If heat exhaustion happens, health officials suggest drinking cool water or nonalcoholic beverages, resting; taking a cool shower, bath or sponge bath; getting into an air-conditioned room; and changing into lightweight clothing.
If you plan to beat the heat by heading to the nearest pool, a statement from the Mississippi Department of Health said illnesses associated with swimming are on the rise.
Contrary to popular belief, chlorine does not kill all germs immediately. Some germs are very tolerant of chlorine and can cause serious illness. It can take anywhere from minutes to days for chlorine to kill them. Swallowing just a little water that contains germs can make you sick.
Hot tubs, jacuzzis, fountains and water features can harbor germs as well, and beaches, lakes and streams exposed to sewage runoff can be sources of illness to swimmers and boaters, even from a brief exposure to water.
