Extreme heat can push your body beyond its limits. In extreme heat, the body has to work extra hard to keep a normal temperature. Doing too much on a hot day, spending too much time in the sun, or staying too long in an overheated place can cause heat-related illnesses or death. The elderly, youth and sick are especially vulnerable to high heat conditions. In the case of extreme heat, cooling centers and waterparks will be open in Providence.
Heat Advisories and Warnings
Heat Advisory: Daytime heat indices of 95°F-99°F for 2 or more hours over 2 consecutive days, or 100°F-104°F for 2 or more hours over 1 day.
Excessive Heat Warning: Daytime heat indices of 105°F or higher for 2 or more hours.
During extreme heat, the following actions will help keep you safe:
- Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun.
- Drink plenty of water, even if you do not feel thirsty; avoid drinks with caffeine.
- Limit your outdoor activities to the evening hours if possible.
- Wear loose-fitting clothing that is light in color; wear brimmed hats and sunscreen SPF 15 or higher.
- Use a buddy system when working outdoors.
- Check on your neighbors, especially the elderly and people with special needs.
- Do not leave children or pets in cars.
- Do not open fire hydrants to cool down, it is against the law; report any open fire hydrant to the fire department.
- Recognize the signs and symptoms of heat-related emergencies.
Know the symptoms of heat disorders and overexposure to the sun and be ready to give first aid treatment. Self-help measures are not a substitute for medical care but may help you recognize and respond promptly to warning signs of trouble. Your best defense against heat-related illness is prevention. Staying cool and making simple changes in your fluid intake, activities, and clothing during hot weather can help you remain safe and healthy.
Heat Cramps
Signs: Muscle pains or spasms in the stomach, arms, or legs
Actions: Go to a cooler location. Remove excess clothing. Take sips of cool sports drinks with salt and sugar. Get medical help if cramps last more than an hour.
Heat Exhaustion
Signs: Heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea or vomiting, or fainting
Actions: Go to an air-conditioned place and lie down. Loosen or remove clothing. Take a cool bath. Take sips of cool sports drinks with salt and sugar. Get medical help if symptoms get worse or last more than an hour.
Heat Stroke
Signs: Extremely high body temperature (above 103 degrees) taken orally; red, hot, and dry skin with no sweat; rapid, strong pulse; dizziness; confusion; or unconsciousness
Actions: Call 911 or get the person to a hospital immediately. Cool down with whatever methods are available until medical help arrives.
