Well-above-normal temperatures are expected to persist through the weekend and potentially into next week for Moore County and much of central North Carolina, said Moore County Health Department in a press release.
High temperatures combined with high humidity will push heat index values up into triple digits. Some areas in our region may reach a heat index of up to 110 degrees. Extremely high or unusually hot temperatures can affect your health. Most vulnerable are the elderly, those who work or exercise outdoors, infants and children, and people who have chronic medical conditions.
Moore County Health Department encourages everyone to take the necessary precautions to prevent serious health effects such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
Stay Cool
*Stay in air-conditioned buildings whenever possible.
*Do not rely on a fan as your primary cooling device.
*Limit outdoor activity, especially midday when it is the hottest part of the day.
*Avoid direct sunlight as much as possible.
*Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
*Take cool showers or baths to lower your body temperature.
*Check on at-risk friends, family and neighbors.
Stay Hydrated
*Drink more than usual and don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink.
*Drink from two to four cups of water every hour while working or exercising outside.
*Avoid alcohol or liquids containing high amounts of sugar.
*Make sure your family, friends and neighbors are drinking enough water.
Stay Informed
*Check your local news for extreme heat warnings and safety tips.
*Keep your friends, family and neighbors aware of weather and heat safety information.
Additionally, the Moore County Health Department encourages all residents to learn the signs and first aid response for heat-related illness. Warning signs and symptoms vary but may include:
Heat Exhaustion
Symptoms
*Heavy sweating
*Tiredness or weakness
*Cold, pale, and/or clammy skin
*Weak pulse
*Muscle cramps
*Headache
*Nausea or vomiting
*Dizziness or Fainting
What You Should Do
*Move to a cooler location.
*Sit or lie down, loosen clothing.
*Apply cool, wet cloths to as much of the body as possible.
*Sip water.
*If vomiting occurs and continues, or if any symptoms worsen, seek medical attention immediately.
Heat Stroke
Symptoms
*High body temperature (above 103°F)
*Hot, red, dry or moist skin
*Rapid and strong pulse
*Headache
*Dizziness/Nausea
*Confusion
*Possible unconsciousness
What You Should Do
*Call 911 immediately — this is a medical emergency.
*Move the person to a cooler environment.
*Reduce the person’s body temperature with cool cloths or even a bath.
*Do NOT give fluids.
For more information on extreme heat, visit the Moore County Health Department website at www.moorecountync.gov/health.
Photo via National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Contributed.
