[Press Release] : Prepare for the dangers of summer heat

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Contact: Scott Smith, Public Information Officer or Zim Schwartze,
Interim OEM Director - (573) 874-7400

Prepare for the dangers of summer heat 
Tips from the Office of Emergency Management

COLUMBIA, MO (July 7, 2009) - With temperatures and heat index values
expected to climb again this week, the Columbia/Boone County Office of
Emergency Management (OEM) encourages everyone to take the proper steps
to protect themselves from the heat and humidity we will likely
experience. 

“Anyone who has lived in this area long knows that the July and
August heat and humidity can have deadly effects on those the most
susceptible, the young and the elderly,” says Interim OEM Director Zim
Schwartze. “But we also want to remember those who are at work or play
outdoors. Too much exertion without sufficient breaks can have an
extreme effect on the body.” 

Schwartze and health officials recommend frequent breaks for those who
are outdoors during the peak heating hours of the day, usually between
10 a.m. and 3 p.m. During those breaks, drink plenty of water and rest
in either shaded areas or in air-conditioned buildings. The elderly,
infants, young children and people with chronic health problems or
disabilities are especially at risk during times of high heat and
humidity. They should be watched closely when high heat and humidity
impact the area.

The Office of Emergency Management has several materials available
concerning how to prepare for heat and other weather-related dangers.
Those materials can be found at our Web site,
www.showmeboone.com/OEM/closures.htm.

Heat Safety Facts 
(information provided by the National Weather Service and the Missouri
Department of Health)
●	Over 400 heat-related deaths have been recorded in Missouri
since 1995. 62% of those deaths have occurred in the metropolitan areas
of St. Louis and Kansas City. 

●	Men account of 60% of all heat-related deaths since 2000. The
reason for the high rate of male deaths is due to the fact that men
sweat more than women, making them dehydrated sooner. 

●	An Excessive Heat Advisory is issued by the National Weather
Service (NWS) when the Heat Index is expected to reach 105 degrees, or
the maximum air temperature is expected to equal or exceed 100 degrees.

●	An Excessive Heat Warning is issued, when the Heat Index is
expected to reach 110 degrees, with the nighttime index is expected to
be 75 or higher, for at least 48 hours. 

●	The National Weather Service uses the Heat Index to measure how
hot it feels to people at a certain combination of temperature and
humidity. 

●	Symptoms of Heat Cramps are painful spasms in muscles of legs
and abdomen, along with heavy sweating. To treat, place firm pressure on
cramping muscles, or gentle massage to relieve spasm. Give sips of
water. If nausea occurs, discontinue use. 

●	Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion include heavy sweating, weakness,
cold, pale and clammy skin. Fainting and vomiting possible. To treat,
get the victim out of sun. Lie down and loosen clothing. Apply cool, wet
cloths. Fan or move victim to air conditioned room. Give the victim sips
of water. If nausea occurs, discontinue use. If vomiting continues, seek
immediate medical attention. 

●	Symptoms of Heat Stroke include a high body temperature of 106
degrees or higher, hot dry skin, rapid and strong pulse, and possible
unconsciousness. If Heat Stroke occurs, call emergency medical
assistance immediately. Move the victim to a cooler environment; reduce
body temperature with cold bath or sponging. Do not give fluids.

- 30 -
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