Extreme Heat
Extreme heat is a period of intense heat and humidity above 90 degrees that lasts for at least 2-3 days. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, extreme heat is responsible for approximately 1,200 deaths annually. This is the highest number of annual deaths among all weather-related hazards. Intense heat and heat waves can affect all parts of the country, and it can affect certain types of the population more than others.
It can be harder to regulate body heat under these conditions/ages:
Elders
65 years or older
Children
Up to 4 years in age
Experiencing illness
Taking certain medications
Obesity
Heat Index Indoor and Outdoor
Heat index is the apparent temperature or how it really feels when humidity is factored in. The National Weather Service (NWS) uses Heat Index (HI) to put environmental heat into 4 different categories (OSHA).
- Caution (80°F-90°F HI)
- Extreme caution (91°F-103°F HI)
- Danger (103°F-124°F HI)
- Extreme Danger (126°F or higher HI)
Dangers of Heat Exposure
Heat-Related Illness | Symptoms |
Heat Rash | Small red spots in places where sweat collects |
Heat Cramps | Muscle pains and spasms in the stomach, arms, or legs |
Heat Exhaustion | Heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness/weakness, fast OR weak pulse, dizziness/headaches, fainting, nausea/vomiting
|
Heat Stroke | High body temperature (above 103°F), red, hot, dry skin with NO sweat, rapid and strong pulse, dizziness, confusion or unconsciousness
|
How to Stay Safe
Following these simple tasks can help fight against heat related illnesses. Drinking water and fluids periodically throughout the day is key to staying hydrated. If working indoors or outdoors, take breaks as needed in cool, shady areas. When working, remove PPE, when able, to help cool off during breaks. Last, during extreme heat days, wear loose, lightweight, and light-colored clothing.