University of Hawai?i at Manoa

11/08/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 11/08/2024 18:05

UH physician’s tips to stay safe, cool in ongoing heat

University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa

Contact:

Link to video and sound (details below): https://spaces.hightail.com/receive/tCbZhEjzrS

*suggested VOSOT script below*

WHAT: High temperatures across Hawaiʻi and the U.S. significantly increase the risk of heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke, which can be life threatening.

WHO: Philip Verhoef, a clinical assistant professor of medicine at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa John A. Burns School of Medicine and an intensive care physician at Kaiser Foundation Hospital.

WHY: Understanding the dangers of heat stroke, how to identify early warning signs, and the best practices will help keep you cool and safe in scorching weather.

MORE INFORMATION:

  • Verhoef's tips to prevent heat exhaustion and heat stroke:
  1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water regularly, especially when outdoors.At least a quart of water per hour or 1 to 2 cups every 15 minutes.
  2. Avoid Peak Heat: Limit outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day (usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.).
  3. Take Breaks: Rest in cool, shaded or air-conditioned areas frequently.
  4. Wear Appropriate Clothing: Choose light, loose-fitting and breathable clothes.
  5. Use Sunscreen: Protect your skin from sunburn, which can affect the body's ability to cool itself.
  6. Monitor Physical Activity: Reduce strenuous activities and the time you spend in extreme heat. Take it easy if you start feeling any symptoms of heat-related illness.
  7. Stay Informed: Be aware of the heat index and weather forecasts to plan activities accordingly.

Link to video and sound (details below): https://spaces.hightail.com/receive/tCbZhEjzrS

B-ROLL: (0:37)

0:00-0:37 - Phillip Verhoef examining patients

SOUND:

Phillip Verhoef, JABSOM professor/Kaiser Foundation Hospital physician (0:14)

"When it gets this hot, it can actually become dangerous for people. It's really important to understand what the risks are for you when the temperature gets this high as they are right now across much of the United States."

Verhoef on heat exhaustion (0:23)

"The first thing to watch out for is heat exhaustion. Heat exhaustion happens because youʻve been out in a hot sunny environment and you're starting to get dehydrated. When that happens you start to feel a little sick to your stomach, you feel a little bit weak, your muscles might start to get achy."

Verhoef on heat stroke (0:12)

"And heat stroke happens when your body is no longer able to cool itself off. Heat stroke can be a life-threatening emergency, it can lead to brain damage, muscle damage, kidney failure and even death."

Verhoef on what to do when experiencing heat illness (0:18)

"The best thing to do if you feel like you've got heat exhaustion or it's progressing to heat stroke is to take measures to cool off. Anything you can do to reduce your bodyʻs temperature and that includes drinking cold water but just as importantly that means getting out of that heat."

Verhoef on being prepared (0:13)

We really want to make sure that you're aware that as the temperatures are rising out there this summer that you're being careful to not suffer any adverse consequences from this heat.

_____

VOSOT Script

INTRO:

As summer break winds down for most students and teachers, high temperatures continue to grip Hawaiʻi and much of the U.S., increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

VO:

UH clinical professor of medicine Phillip Verhoef says these conditions can pose serious, life-threatening dangers and shares tips on how to stay safe and recognize warning signs from extreme heat.

SOT:

Phillip Verhoef, JABSOM professor/Kaiser Foundation Hospital physician
"The first thing to watch out for is heat exhaustion. Heat exhaustion happens because youʻve been out in a hot sunny environment and you're starting to get dehydrated. When that happens you start to feel a little sick to your stomach, you feel a little bit weak, your muscles start to get achy."

VO:

Verhoef says heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke if not addressed immediately.

SOT:

"Heat stroke happens when your body is no longer able to cool itself off. Heat stroke can be a life-threatening emergency, it can lead to brain damage, muscle damage, kidney failure and even death."

VO:

Verhoef advises drinking at least a quart of water per hour or 1 to 2 cups every 15 minutes to stay hydrated, allowing you to perspire and sweat, which is the most effective way your body can cool off.

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