.@3 DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION Facts from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Cool Down For A Healthy Summer (NAPSA)—Although every Summer we hear about athletes, children, the elderly, and others becoming ill or dying from expo- sure to heat, this year doesn’t have to be the same. You can beat the heat by taking specific steps to protect yourself and others. Who’s at Risk? In the United States, 7,421 peo- ple died from excessive heat during 1979-1998. Anyone exposed to high temperatures for a sustained period of time is at risk for heatrelated illness (heat exhaustion or heat stroke [hyperthermia]) or death. At greater risk are the elderly, children, and people with certain medical conditions, such as heart disease. Some behaviors also put people at greater risk: drinking alcohol; taking part in strenu- How Can You Prevent HeatRelated Illness? Stay hydrated and cool. Drink plenty of hydrating fluids such as ous outdoor physical activities in water; seek out air-conditioned to regulate its temperature or that inhibit perspiration. What Are the Symptoms of Heat-Related Illness? fans may provide some comfort, hot weather; and taking medications that impair the body’s ability spaces and spend even short periods of time there; wear light clothing; reduce activity; and plan outdoor activities for the cooler parts of the day. While electric headache, nausea or vomiting, and fainting. The skin may be they are not effective in cooling the body when the temperature and humidity are high. A cool shower or bath, or spending time in an air conditioned location be fast and weak, and breathing will be fast and shallow. If the elderly, disabled, or home- Symptoms of heat exhaustion include paleness, muscle cramps, fatigue, weakness, dizziness, cool and moist; sweating may or may not occur. The pulse rate will untreated, heat exhaustion may progress to heat stroke. Symptoms of heat stroke in- clude a body temperature above 103F; red, hot, and dry skin (no sweating); rapid, strong pulse; throbbing headache; dizziness; nausea; confusion; and unconsciousness. Heat stroke is a serious condition; even if treated, many people with heat stroke will die. such as a mall or movie theatre, is a more effective way to cool off. During heat waves, check on bound people to ensure their safety. Never leave children in cars or similar enclosed spaces, and make sure they aren't able to lock themselves in an enclosed space such as a car trunk. For more information, go to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Web site at http://www.cdc.gov/nceh/hsb/extre meheat.
