Thursday, July 05, 2012
 
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Stay safe during excessive heat conditions

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[July 05, 2012]  CHICAGO -- The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency wants individuals and families to understand how to cope with excessive heat and is encouraging everyone to exercise caution when faced with extreme conditions.

The National Weather Service has issued excessive heat warnings and advisories in areas throughout the Midwest for the next several days. A heat index in excess of 100-105 can be expected in these areas. It is essential that residents take the necessary precautions to avoid the harmful effects of the high temperatures.

"A combination of high temperatures and high humidity can create a dangerous situation for you and your family," said Andrew Velasquez III, FEMA Region V administrator. "Know the steps you can take to stay safe in excessive heat, and remember to check in on family, friends and neighbors, especially those who are elderly, disabled or have functional needs."

The key to survival is to know what to do before and during a period of extreme heat.

During extremely hot weather, you should take the following precautions:

  • Become familiar with the emergency plans of your community, school, caregivers and workplace.

  • Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun.

  • If your home is without power, consider staying with family or friends or visiting a local cooling center. Stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine if air conditioning is not available.

  • Consider spending the warmest part of the day in public buildings such as libraries, schools, movie theaters, shopping malls and other community facilities that are air-conditioned.

  • Eat well-balanced, light and regular meals. Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician.

  • Drink plenty of water. People who have epilepsy, heart disease, kidney disease or liver disease, are on fluid-restricted diets, or have a problem with fluid retention should consult a doctor before increasing liquid intake.

  • Limit intake of alcoholic beverages.

  • Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight and light-colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible.

  • Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning and who spend much of their time alone. It is especially important to check on the elderly, disabled and those with functional needs.

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  • Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles.

  • Avoid strenuous work during the warmest part of the day. Use a buddy system when working in extreme heat, and take frequent breaks.

To prepare for extreme heat:

  • Install window air conditioners snugly; insulate if necessary.

  • Check air-conditioning ducts for proper insulation.

  • Weatherstrip doors and sills to keep cool air in.

  • Cover windows that receive morning or afternoon sun with drapes, shades, awnings or louvers. (Outdoor awnings or louvers can reduce the heat that enters a home by up to 80 percent.)

  • Keep storm windows up all year.

  • If you are without air conditioning, you can use box fans and ceiling fans to promote air circulation throughout your home. Circulating air can cool the body by increasing the perspiration rate of evaporation.

Extreme heat brings with it the possibility of heat-induced illnesses, including severe sunburns, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and even heatstroke. Understand your symptoms and take the appropriate actions, seeking medical attention if your conditions are severe.

For more information and tips on being ready for extreme heat, visit www.fema.gov and www.ready.gov.

[Text from file received from FEMA Region V]

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