Surviving the South Florida Heat

Hot weather is here. Extreme heat can be dangerous. No one should die from heat wave, but every year on average, extreme heat causes 658 deaths in the United States.

There are three degrees of heat illness: heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat-related deaths are preventable when the signs and symptoms are recognized and respected:

Heat Cramps – intermittent, involuntary spasm of muscles occurring in an individual who is physically active in hot or humid weather.

Heat Exhaustion – is a serious illness.  Symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness, thirst, and heavy sweating.

Heat Stroke – is the most serious and requires immediate medical attention.  Symptoms include confusion, fainting, seizures, very high body temperatures and hot, dry skin or profuse sweating. 
What can you do?

Drink plenty of water, at least eight ounces every 20 minutes

Take rest breaks to help your body recover

Rest in the shade or in air-conditioning to cool down