JACKSON, Wyo. — With an extreme heat wave heading toward the valley, it is a good idea to be aware of the physiological affects that sizzling temps could have.
Local agencies are sharing tips on social media to help residents weather the hot spell. The National Weather Service Riverton (NWS) is urging people to practice “heat safety.” The Teton County Health Department (TCHD) provided advice to avoid heat-related illness. Teton County (Idaho) Fire & Rescue shared a graphic that shows the difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
“Heat related deaths are preventable,” reads the NWS image. “Protect yourself and others from the impact of heat waves.”
The NWS urges residents to follow these safety tips to avoid heat-related illness or worse:
- Job sites: Stay hydrated and take breaks in the shade as often as possible.
- Vehicles: Never leave kids or pets unattended — “Look before you lock,” NWS said.
- Indoors: Check up on the elderly, sick and those without air conditioning.
- Outdoors: Limit strenuous outdoor activities, find shade and stay hydrated.
TCHD suggests beginning the day with water before going out into the heat: “If you only start chugging water after you’re already sweating, you’re playing catch-up. Start loading up on water the night before or first thing in the morning.” Sweating can also drain salt and minerals, so electrolytes are a good addition to prevent muscle cramps. To cool down, consider placing ice on pulse points like the neck and wrists to drop the body’s core temp. TCHD advises that people avoid the sun’s peak hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
For those who do start to feel physically affected by the heat, know the difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke and what to do if symptoms present themselves. Teton County Fire & Rescue’s post shows that heat exhaustion is characterized by a faint or dizzy feeling; excessive sweating; cool, pale, clammy skin; nausea or vomiting; rapid, weak pulse; and muscle cramps. If experienced, the victim should get to a cool or air conditioned place, drink water if fully conscious, and take a cool shower or use cold compresses.
Heat stroke is much more serious. It can bring symptoms such as a throbbing headache; no sweating; body temperature above 103ºF with red, hot, dry skin; nausea or vomiting; rapid, strong pulse; and possible loss of consciousness. Those who see someone else experiencing heat stroke are encouraged to call 911 and take immediate action to cool the person down.
