During the summer months, heat waves are not at all uncommon, in fact, the reason this special report is being written is because we are in a heat wave and everyone is succeptable to heat problems. Here are some quick safety tips during excessive heat:

When a heat advisory is issued:

- Expect heat indicies around 100.
- Avoid prolonged work in direct sun or in poorly ventilated areas.
- Keep the body hydrated by drinking plenty of non-alcoholic, non-caffeninated liquids.
- Try to stay in an air conditioned enviornment.
- Wear light colored/light weight clothes.
- Protect your pets.
- Don't leave anyone inside a closed vehicle

Children, the elderly, and those with chronic ailments usually the first to experience the effects of excessive heat:
- Heat exhaustion, cramps or in exreme cases, heat stroke can result from prolonged outdoor exposure

Friends, relatives or neighbors should check on people who may be at risk.

When a heat watch is issued:

- Expect heat indicies above 100, normally between 101 and 105 in the next day or two.
(refer to heat warning section for safety tips)

When a heat warning is issued:

- Expect heat indicies above 100, normally between 101 and 105.

Take extra measures to insure that you:
- Avoid prolonged work in direct sun or in poorly ventilated areas.
- Keep the body hydrated by drinking plenty of non-alcoholic, non-caffeninated liquids.
- Try to stay in an air conditioned enviornment.
- Wear light colored/light weight clothes.

If no air conditioning is available:
- Keep your living enviornment properly ventilated
- Use fans for cooling
- Stay in the shade

Pets and domestic animals:
- Should be brought indoors into air conditioning
- Make sure they have access to plenty of cool water

Do not keep any person or animal in a closed vehicle for any length of time. It has been proved easily fatal.

Children, the elderly, and those with chronic ailments usually the first to experience the effects of excessive heat:
- Heat exhaustion, cramps and fatal heat stroke are possible with prolonged outdoor exposure

Friends, relatives or neighbors should check on people who may be at risk.

Do not do any strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day, usually between 10AM and 6PM. Exersize, play golf or do work early in the morning or late in the evening.


Bill Deger,
PHLweather

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