County Health Services offers tips to stay safe in the summer heat

Temperatures are expected to climb above 100 degrees in Central Oregon this weekend and Deschutes County Health Services is reminding the community to stay cool, stay hydrated and to watch out for one another when it's hot outside.

"As temperatures increase, so do heat-related illnesses. A heat-related illness can be deadly and can affect anyone, regardless of their age, gender or health status," said Dr. Richard Fawcett, Deschutes County Health Officer. "We encourage everyone to protect themselves and others during the extreme heat this weekend."

Public Health suggests the following strategies to stay healthy and safe:

• Drink more water than usual and don't wait until you're thirsty.
• Always carry bottled water with you and bring extra for others.
• Avoid alcohol and sugary drinks.
• Plan to do outdoor activities in the early morning when temperatures are lower.
• Wear light weight, loose fitting clothing.
• Stay in an air-conditioned location as much as possible. If your home doesn't have air-conditioning, spend time in a public library or a designated cooling center.
• Stay indoors during the hottest part of the day, usually between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.
• Don't rely on electric fans. They may provide comfort, but they do not prevent heat-related illnesses when temperatures are above 90 degrees.
• Avoid using your stove and oven to maintain a cooler temperature in your home.
• Never leave children or pets in a parked car, even with the window rolled down. Cars heat up very quickly and can put them at risk of heat stroke.

Older adults, children, people with chronic illnesses and those who are working and/or living outdoors are at greater risk of heat-related illness. Public Health recommends checking on friends and family members when it's hot, and to know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Weakness
• Irritability
• Thirst
• Heavy sweating
• Elevated body temperature
• Decreased urine output

If you or others are experiencing symptoms of heat exhaustion, take steps to cool down right away and seek medical help if the symptoms don't improve. Heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke.

Symptoms of heat stroke include:

• Confusion, altered mental status, slurred speech
• Loss of consciousness (coma)
• Hot, dry skin or profuse sweating
• Seizures
• Very high body temperature

If you, or others have symptoms of heat stroke call 911. Heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability without emergency treatment.

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Media Contact: Emily Horton, Public Health Program Manager

(458) 292-6024

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