An excessive heat warning has been issued for this weekend. The National Weather Service has forecast high temperatures up to 116 degrees in the Morongo Basin and other desert areas of southern California, Arizona, and Nevada. The heat watch is in effect through Wednesday. Extreme heat will significantly increase the potential for heat related illnesses, particularly for those working or participating in outdoor activities. Managing editor Tami Roleff has these tips on how to prevent heat-related illness…
To prevent heat-related illness, stay in an air-conditioned place as much as possible. Electric fans may provide comfort, but when the temperature is in the high 90s, they will not prevent heat-related illness. If you don’t have air-conditioning, go to the library. Take a cool shower or bath. Wear light-weight and light-colored clothing. Stay hydrated; drink lots of cool water and stay away from sugary or alcoholic drinks. If you must go outside, do it in the very early morning or late evening, when it’s cooler. And if you walk your dog, remember if the pavement is too hot for your feet, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. Never leave your children or pets inside a parked car, even if the windows are open.
Signs that you may be suffering heat-related illness include dizziness, headaches, nausea, fatigue, flushed skin and in advanced cases, lack of thirst and the absence of sweating. If you think you’re experiencing heat exhaustion, stop all activity and rest; move to a cooler place; drink cool water and sports drinks, and seek medical attention immediately.
