Emergency Preparedness Program

Extreme Heat

 

What is a heat wave?

A heat wave is a prolonged period of excessive heat, often combined with excessive humidity.

 

What is the heat index?

The heat index is the temperature the body feels when the effects of heat and humidity are combined.

 

During a Heat Wave

• Never leave a child or pet alone in a vehicle
• Take it easy and stay indoors if possible
• Drink plenty of water and eat lightly
• Keep heat out of your home and cooler air in
• Wear light-colored loose fitting clothes
• Listen to local radio or television stations for updates

Keep It Cool Tips:

• Close any floor heat vents nearby
• Seal gaps around window air conditioning units with foam or duct tape
• Use a fan to spread the cool air around
• Close shades, drapes or awnings on windows to reduce heat entering home or use aluminum foil covered cardboard in windows to reflect heat back outside
• Use weather stripping on doors and windowsills
• Keep storm windows up all year to help keep cool in

Signs of heat exhaustion:

• Cool, moist, pale or flushed skin
• Heavy sweating
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness and exhaustion
• Body temperature may be normal or rising 

If someone is experiencing heat exhaustion:

• Move the person to a cooler place.
• Cool down the body as quickly as possible.
• Do not give liquids that contain alcohol or caffeine.  They can cause further dehydration, making conditions worse.

 

Signs of heatstroke:

• Hot, red skin
• Changes in consciousness
• Rapid, weak pulse
• Rapid, shallow breathing
• Very high body temperature –sometimes as high as 105° F. 
• Dry skin (Skin may be wet if person was sweating from heavy work or exercise.)
• Heatstroke is a life-threatening situation. 

If you suspect someone is suffering from heatstroke:

• Call 911 immediately.
• Cool down the body as quickly as possible.
• Do not give liquids that contain alcohol or caffeine.  They can cause further dehydration, making conditions worse.

Learn More:

• Extreme Heat (Ready America)
• Extreme Heat (FEMA)
• Extreme Heat (CDC)
• Heat Waves (American Red Cross)
• Heat Wave – A Major Summer Killer (NOAA/NWS)

 

 

Information is not intended to be a substitute for appropriate medical advice.  Links to external sites do not constitute endorsements by Macomb County.

Return to Top