Excessive heat across the southern US will continue, according to latest weather prediction models.
It’s wreaking havoc with power grids, too, with blackouts expected for most of the US West of the Mississippi River.
The issues are raising concerns about heat-related illnesses—even here in West Michigan
RELATED: Father, teen die in hiking trip due to high temps
There are a few things you can do to protect yourself and loved ones.
First, recognize the signs and differences between Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke.
Both can impact behavior and safety and are cause for immediate attention.
Heat Exhaustion is the step before Heat Stroke, so you need to be diligent when you start to feel overheated.
ADVICE
Get somewhere shady or cool
Drink water or a sports drink to replenish fluids
Cool off with wet towels or ice packs
(If someone is with you) draw a cool bath
Heath Exhaustion needs to be carefully monitored, but mild cases can be treated at home. If you're alone, call someone who can help keep an eye on you
WHEN TO GET HELP
If you throw up or cannot drink
If your symptoms last longer than an hour
If your symptoms get worse
Heat Stroke can damage the brain, heart, kidneys, and muscles if left untreated
HEAT STROKE SYMPTOMS
Take the list from above and add headache, a body temperature at 104 or above, nausea and vomiting, rapid breathing and heart rate, confusion, slurred/slow speech, or fainting
ADVICE
Get help now - Call 911 and get to a hospital immediately
Get somewhere cool and use wet towels to cool off and (if there's someone with you) draw a cool bath
HOW TO AVOID BOTH
Make sure you’re not out in the heat for extended periods alone, especially while doing anything strenuous.
Drink more water—a lot more than most of us do in a day—and ditch anything sugary like pop, alcohol, or juice. Keep a sports drink handy if you’re doing anything strenuous, though don’t drink them if you’re just hanging out outside.
If you’re feeling the impact of heat, get somewhere cool and ask for help.
Keep an eye on loved ones, especially infants and children, elderly adults, those with chronic illnesses or conditions, and the most stubborn among us.
