As the summer heat arrives in Shasta County, it is crucial to be prepared for the potential dangers that come with it. Today marks Heatstroke Prevention Day, a perfect opportunity to learn ways to stay safe in the warm weather. Christopher Diamond, a Community Education Specialist with the Shasta County Health and Human Services Agency, shared some tips on how to avoid heat-related illnesses.
One of the key ways to prevent heat-related illness is by staying hydrated and wearing light and loose-fitting clothing. It’s also important to seek shade when outside and avoid leaving children or pets inside closed cars as temperatures can rise rapidly in confined spaces. Diamond emphasized the importance of staying aware of loved ones’ safety as the temperature rises.
Scheduling outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day and moving outdoor pets indoors can also help lower the risk of heatstroke. Recognizing symptoms of heatstroke, such as high body temperature, dizziness, confusion, and nausea, is crucial. If someone shows signs of heatstroke, it’s a medical emergency and 911 should be called immediately.
Diamond stressed that checking on vulnerable individuals who may be more susceptible to heat-related illnesses should be done regularly. This includes elderly people, those with disabilities or chronic health conditions, low-income families or homeless people who are at higher risk in hot weather conditions. Offering assistance and support can help keep these individuals safe during hot months.
The Shasta County HHSA’s educational web page is an excellent resource for more information on staying safe in the heat. By taking precautions and being informed, we can prevent heat-related illnesses and keep our community safe during warmer months