Press Release

For immediate release July 25, 2005
Contact: John T. Althardt, (317) 221-2316

Heat Creates Health Threat: Health Department Urges Caution For Those Who Must Be Outside

The Marion County Health Department is urging those who do not have to be outside today and tomorrow to restrict their outdoor activities to avoid potential heat-related injuries. With the heat index expected to reach at or above 100 degrees today and Tuesday, the risk for heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke is very high.

The elderly and the very young are most at risk, but anyone who is over-exposed to the severe heat runs the risk of a heat-related injury. The threat to the elderly and those three years old and younger is due to the fact they do not sweat efficiently. Those who are overweight, on certain medications and those who are chronically ill also face higher risks from the extreme heat.

Symptoms of heat stress include dizziness, nausea, vomiting, rapid heartbeat, headaches, weakness, cramps, changes in mental health, hot and dry skin and heavy sweating.

“Heat injuries can be life threatening,” said Virginia A. Caine, M.D., director, Marion County Health Department. “If a person appears to be in trouble, move them into a shady area and attempt to gently cool them off and seek immediate emergency care,” said Dr. Caine.

The last heat-related Marion County death was reported in 2002. There were four deaths reported in the county between 2000 and 2001.

The health department asks that infants, children, adults and pets not be left in parked cars during the extreme heat. As an additional safety measure, parked cars should be locked and trunks secured to ensure curious children do not become trapped.

Although avoiding the sun and hot conditions is the best way to avoid heat-related injury, this may not be practical for those who have no choice other than to be outside. Suggestions to help reduce heat injury include:

• Drink plenty of cool water.
  
• Slow down from your normal pace.
  
• Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun.
  
• Attempt to get in air conditioning, even for brief periods of time. If you do not have air conditioning, move to a location that is air-conditioned. Visiting a branch of the Indianapolis Marion County Public Library or spend time at one of the local shopping malls are some suggestions.
  
• Also, the American Red Cross at 441 East 10th Street has opened a cooling station at their facility for those needing a place to cool off.
  
• Fans alone may not be an adequate source of relief in the extreme heat.
  
• Draw shades, blinds and curtains in rooms exposed to direct sunlight.
  
• Cool down with cool baths or showers.
  
• Wear loose-fitting, light colored clothing.
  
• Avoid alcohol.
  
• Parents-limit childrens' exposure to the outdoors; children may not recognize the signs of heat stress and slow their activity level accordingly until they begin feeling sick. Make certain they drink plenty of water.

If you know of someone- a family member, neighbor, friend and you know they do not have access to air-conditioning—check in on them today and tomorrow to make certain they are prepared for the extreme heat.