Stay Safe During Hot Weather: 3 Ways to Prevent Heat-Related Illness 
Hot summers in Burke County can be more than uncomfortable. High temperatures and humidity can increase the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, especially for people who work outdoors, exercise outside, or spend long periods in the heat.
The good news is that most heat-related illnesses can be prevented by following three simple steps:
Stay Cool | Stay Hydrated | Stay Informed
Know the Warning Signs:
Hot weather can become dangerous quickly. Knowing the difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke can help you take the right action when every minute matters.
Heat Exhaustion: A Warning Sign
Heat exhaustion happens when the body gets too hot and cannot cool itself effectively.
Watch for these symptoms:
- Heavy sweating
- Cool, pale, or clammy skin
- Muscle cramps
- Tiredness or weakness
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fainting
What to do:
- Move to a cool or air-conditioned place.
- Rest and avoid physical activity.
- Drink water or a sports drink if able.
- Apply cool, wet cloths to the skin.
- Remove extra layers of clothing.
If symptoms do not improve, get worse, or last longer than an hour, seek medical care.
Heat Stroke: Call 911 Immediately
Heat stroke is the most serious heat-related illness and can be life threatening.
Watch for these symptoms:
- Body temperature of 104°F or higher
- Hot, red skin
- Confusion or unusual behavior
- Slurred speech
- Seizures
- Loss of consciousness
What to do:
- Call 911 right away.
- Move the person to a cooler location.
- Use cold water, ice packs, or wet towels to help cool them.
- Do not give them anything to drink if they are confused, unconscious, or having trouble swallowing.
When in Doubt, Get Help
If someone appears seriously ill, confused, or unresponsive after being in the heat, call 911 immediately. Quick action can save a life.
This format is easier to skim on mobile, which is how many community members will read it, and the headers naturally guide readers from symptoms to action.
The Keys to Staying Safe:
Beat the Heat
When temperatures are high:
- Spend time in air-conditioned spaces whenever possible.
- Visit community cooling locations such as libraries, shopping centers, or other public facilities if your home is not air conditioned.
- Take cool showers or baths.
- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing.
- Avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day, usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Schedule outdoor work and exercise for early morning or evening when temperatures are lower.
- Take frequent breaks in the shade or air conditioning.
Drink Before You're Thirsty
Your body needs extra fluids during hot weather.
- Drink water throughout the day.
- Do not wait until you feel thirsty.
- If you are sweating heavily, consider drinks that replace electrolytes.
- Avoid excessive alcohol and drinks with large amounts of sugar.
- Encourage children and older adults to drink water regularly.
- Make sure pets always have access to fresh water and shade.
Know Before You Go
Heat risk is based on more than temperature alone. Humidity can make it feel much hotter and make it harder for the body to cool itself.
Before spending time outdoors:
- Check the local forecast.
- Pay attention to heat advisories and warnings.
- Monitor the heat index, which reflects how hot it feels when temperature and humidity are combined.
- Adjust outdoor plans when conditions are dangerous.
Never Leave Anyone in a Parked Vehicle
Temperatures inside a vehicle can rise to dangerous levels in just a few minutes, even when windows are cracked.
Never leave:
- Children
- Older adults
- Individuals with disabilities
- Pets
inside a parked vehicle, even for a short time.
Who Is Most at Risk?
Anyone can develop a heat-related illness, but some people are at greater risk, including:
- Infants and young children
- Adults age 65 and older
- People who work outdoors
- Athletes and outdoor recreation participants
- People who are pregnant
- Individuals with heart disease, lung disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, or other chronic medical conditions
- People taking certain medications that affect hydration or body temperature
Take Heat Seriously:
Heat-related illnesses can develop quickly, but they are often preventable. By staying cool, staying hydrated, and staying informed, Burke County residents can reduce their risk and enjoy summer more safely.
When in doubt, move to a cooler place, drink water, and seek medical attention if symptoms become severe or do not improve.
