Heat-Related Illnesses

When sweltering temperatures are forecast, take steps to protect yourself from heat-related illnesses. People who spend time outdoors for work or recreation need to protect themselves from the sun and drink plenty of fluids to minimize the risk of heat-related illness. High temperatures with high humidity levels can be dangerous.

Symptoms of heat-related illness include muscle cramps, fatigue, weakness, dizziness, fainting, headaches, nausea and vomiting. Heat-related illness is preventable with proper precautions. However, every summer there are about 3,000 heat-related illness emergency department visits. Children, older individuals, outdoor workers and those with chronic health conditions are most vulnerable.

To reduce risk of heat-related illness: 

• Increase fluid intake 
• Take frequent breaks in cool or air-conditioned places if spending extended time outside 
• Reduce normal activity levels 
• Speak with your physician about how to stay safe if you take medicines that make you more vulnerable to heat, such as drugs for high blood pressure, migraines, allergies, muscle spasms, mental illness and tranquilizers 
• Check on neighbors, and if working outdoors, check on your co-workers 
• Never leave children or pets unattended in vehicles, especially during warm or hot weather, as temperature levels inside a car can reach a lethal level in a matter of minutes

High heat days may also be poor air quality days, which can pose an additional threat to those living with chronic health conditions, older adults and children. Poor air quality days typically occur on days with high heat and low humidity. 

Resources

HeatRisk Forecast Tool - provides a seven-day heat forecast nationwide that tells you when temperatures may reach levels that could harm your health.

HeatRisk Dashboard - integrates the HeatRisk Forecast Tool data with other information, including details on local air quality, to inform the public on how best to protect themselves when outdoor temperatures are high and could impact their health.

For more information on how to prevent heat-related health issues and to learn about heat-related illness in North Carolina, visit http://publichealth.nc.gov/chronicdiseaseandinjury/heat.htm.

Individuals and families experiencing a heating or cooling crisis are also encouraged to check with their county department of social services about the availability of and their eligibility for Crisis Intervention Program funds.