Heat Safety: Preparing for Several Days Near 100°

A prolonged stretch of dangerous summer heat is expected across Rowan, Davie, and Davidson Counties through the Fourth of July holiday weekend. Afternoon temperatures will climb into the upper 90s and around 100 degrees, while heat index values will frequently exceed 100 degrees.

Whether you're working outside, attending a community celebration, grilling with family, or watching fireworks, it's important to take the heat seriously. Several consecutive days of high temperatures can increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, even if you're healthy.

Who Is Most at Risk?

While anyone can become sick from extreme heat, the greatest risk includes:

• Outdoor workers
• Young children
• Older adults
• People with chronic medical conditions
• Athletes and those participating in outdoor recreation
• Pets

If you fall into one of these groups, plan to spend extra time in air conditioning or shaded areas whenever possible.

Stay Hydrated

One of the easiest ways to prevent heat illness is to stay ahead of dehydration.

• Drink water frequently throughout the day, even if you don't feel thirsty.
• Increase your water intake if you're working or exercising outdoors.
• Limit alcohol, which can contribute to dehydration.
• Sports drinks can help replace electrolytes during prolonged outdoor activity, but water should remain your primary source of hydration.

By the time you feel thirsty, you may already be becoming dehydrated.

Dress for the Heat

Your clothing can make a big difference.

• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing.
• Choose a wide-brimmed hat when spending extended time outdoors.
• Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and reapply as directed.
• Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from intense summer sunshine.

Plan Around the Hottest Part of the Day

The most dangerous heat typically occurs between 2:00 PM and 6:00 PM.

If possible:

• Complete outdoor chores during the morning.
• Schedule frequent breaks if you must work outside.
• Move activities into shaded areas whenever available.
• Check on friends, neighbors, and family members who may not have air conditioning.

Know the Warning Signs

Heat Exhaustion

Symptoms may include:

• Heavy sweating
• Weakness or fatigue
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Muscle cramps
• Cool, pale, clammy skin

If someone develops these symptoms:

• Move them into a cool or shaded area.
• Give them water if they are alert.
• Loosen or remove excess clothing.
• Use cool towels or fans to help lower body temperature.

Heat Stroke — A Medical Emergency

Heat stroke can become life-threatening very quickly.

Symptoms include:

• Body temperature above 103°F
• Hot, red skin
• Confusion or unusual behavior
• Slurred speech
• Seizures
• Loss of consciousness

Call 911 immediately if you suspect someone is suffering from heat stroke. While waiting for emergency responders, move the person to a cooler location and begin cooling them with cool water, wet towels, or ice packs.

Don't Forget Your Pets

Pets are especially vulnerable during extreme heat.

• Always provide fresh, cool water.
• Walk dogs early in the morning or later in the evening.
• Hot pavement can burn paw pads in just a few seconds.
• Make sure outdoor pets have shade throughout the day.
• Never leave a pet inside a parked vehicle.

Never Leave Children or Pets in a Vehicle

Even with the windows cracked, the temperature inside a vehicle can rise to dangerous levels within minutes.

A parked car can become deadly much faster than many people realize.

Bottom Line

This upcoming stretch of hot weather will be one of the hottest periods we've experienced so far this summer. With many people expected to spend extended time outdoors for Independence Day celebrations, now is the time to prepare.

Drink plenty of water, take frequent breaks, seek shade whenever possible, and pay close attention to the signs of heat-related illness.

A few simple precautions can help ensure you and your family enjoy a safe and happy Fourth of July holiday.