Good Sam Issues Heat Safety Advisory

As the onslaught of heat and humidity continues across the area, Good Samaritan Hospital in West Islip has issued an extreme heat safety advisory with tips on how to stay healthy during a heat wave.

Heat-related illnesses are cause for concern when temperatures spike, and high humidity slows sweat from evaporating, thus preventing the body from releasing heat.

While anyone can fall victim to heat-related illnesses, health officials say infants and young children, people 65 years of age and older, those who are ill, especially with heart disease or high blood pressure, or who take certain medications are at greater risk.

“Heat-related illnesses can range from heat cramps to heat exhaustion to more serious heat stroke,” said Dr. Eric Decena, Vice Chairman of Emergency Services at Good Samaritan. “Heat stroke can result in death and requires immediate medical attention.”

If you experience the first signs of heat illness (dizziness, nausea, headaches, muscle cramps), move to a cooler location, rest for a few minutes and slowly drink a cool beverage. Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or last longer than one hour.

Here are some other tips to staying cool:

• Reduce strenuous activities and try to limit your outdoor activity to morning and evening hours.

• Avoid sunburn by using a sunscreen lotion with a high SPF (sun protection factor) rating.

• Drink plenty of water, non-alcoholic and decaffeinated fluids.
• Avoid hot foods and heavy meals.

• Take frequent breaks when working outdoors.

• Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sun block and light-colored, loose-fitting clothes when outdoors.

• Spend more time in air-conditioned places if available. Call your local health  department to see if there are any heat-relief shelters in your area.