As cold as Wisconsin can get during the winter months, the state can become exceedingly warm during the summer months. According to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS), from 2011-2015, Wisconsin had 48 heat-related fatalities. The majority (52%) of those deaths were people between the ages of 65-84 and more than half of the total deaths were females. Each summer, we also hear reports of children who die because they are left in the car when it’s hot outside.
If you care for an elderly loved one, have children or work outdoors during the summer here are some tips from the DHS to help you prevent heat-related illnesses or death.
- First and foremost, never leave children, disabled or elderly people (or, for that matter, pets) in cars. The temperature inside a car can become life-threatening within minutes!
- Check on elderly or ill neighbors and friends during periods of extreme heat.
- Be certain to drink plenty of water and do not drink liquids with a lot of caffeine, sugar or alcohol.
- Avoid being outdoors during the hottest part of the day.
If you work outdoors or in an environment without air-conditioning, when it’s above 90ºF:
- You should avoid strenuous activity when it is hottest.
- Drink plenty of liquids — water is best — and take frequent breaks.
- Use fans to improve air circulation — blow hot air out the window.
- Monitor your oral temperature. If it is above 99ºF, seek medical assistance.
- Remember — high humidity means that your sweat doesn’t evaporate as easily, which makes conditions more dangerous.
If you are an employer with employees at risk of heat-related illnesses, the U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provides a number of resources to help you prevent heat-related health problems.
Symptoms of heat-related illnesses include nausea or vomiting, muscle cramps, dizziness, headache and weakness. If you, or someone close by, experience the following symptoms it is important to call 911 immediately: shortness of breath, confusion, chest pains, hot/dry skin or unconsciousness.
