Safety Urged as Summer Scorcher Continues
  

Extreme heat has taken a toll across the West in recent days, and there are many more days of sweltering conditions ahead. The American Red Cross urges people to beat the heat and protect themselves and their loved ones from extreme temperatures.

”Heat can be a very real threat, everyone is at risk when temperatures rise above 90 degrees, but the elderly and the very young are most susceptible to heat and heat-related illnesses.”

Heat-related illnesses can cause serious injury and even death if unattended. Signs of heat-related illnesses include nausea, dizziness, flushed or pale skin, heavy sweating and headaches. People experiencing these symptoms should be moved to a cool place, given cool water to drink and ice packs or cool, wet cloths should be applied to the skin. If a victim refuses water, vomits or loses consciousness, call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number immediately.

As in all dangerous weather conditions, prevention and preparation are the keys to avoiding tragedy. The Red Cross recommends the following steps to prevent heat-related illness during this heat wave:

• Stay indoors as much as possible, preferably in an air conditioned place.
• If you don’t have air conditioning at home, plan to spend several hours each day in a cool place, like at the home of a friend or family member, shopping mall or movie theater.
• Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing when out in the sun.
• Always wear a wide-brimmed hat to keep sun off the head and neck when outside.
• Use sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of 16 or greater.
• Slow down. Avoid strenuous activity.
• Drink plenty of water, even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid alcoholic and caffeinated beverages, which dehydrate the body.
• Eat smaller meals, more often. Avoid foods that are high in protein, because they raise metabolic heat.
• Avoid taking salt tablets, which actually can make problems with the effects of heat worse on the body.

For more information, contact Oregon Trail Chapter at 503-528-5639 or visit www.redcross-pdx.org

The American Red Cross is a humanitarian organization, led by volunteers, that provides relief to victims of disaster and helps people prevent, prepare and respond to emergencies. Oregon Trail Chapter Red Cross volunteers respond to residential fires and other disasters every 40 hours on average. All Red Cross disaster assistance is free, made possible by voluntary donations of time and money from Oregonians. Financial gifts help provide food, clothing, shelter, counseling and other emergency services. To help those in immediate need call (503) 284-1234 or visit www.redcross-pdx.org