Here’s how to tell if someone in MS is having heatstroke this summer and how to deal with it
School is out across Mississippi, and that means the heat is here to stay for the next few months.
This summer, “warmer-than-normal” weather is expected along the Mississippi Coast, according to the Farmer’s Almanac.
But extra precautions are needed to stay safe in the hot summer weather. According to health experts, heatstroke is most common during the summer months.
Here’s what Mississippians should know about staying safe from heatstroke during the hot summer months.
What is heatstroke?
Heatstroke is a condition that happens when the body overheats, usually due to the weather or strenuous activity, according to experts at Mayo Clinic.
It is the most serious stage of heat injury and needs immediate emergency care, experts said.
Symptoms include the following, according to the Mississippi State Department of Health:
- Extremely high body temperature (above 103 degrees Fahrenheit)
- Red, hot and dry skin without sweating
- Rapid, strong pulse
- Throbbing headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Confusion
- Unconsciousness
How to stay safe from heatstroke
Here are some tips to prevent heatstroke from Mayo Clinic:
- Wear loose-fitting, lightweight clothing
- Protect yourself from sunburn Drink plenty of fluids, especially water
- Take extra precautions with certain medicines that impact hydration
- Never leave anyone in a parked car
- Avoid strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day
- Take time to get acclimated to the heat
What to do if heatstroke happens
If you suspect someone is experiencing heatstroke, here’s what you can do to help, according to the MSDH:
- Get medical help immediately
- Get the person out of the sun or heat
- Help cool the person by getting them in cool water and fanning them
- Monitor their body temperature and continue cooling them
- Call the ER if emergency medical personnel are delayed
- If the person is experiencing tremors, don’t put anything in their mouth and don’t give them fluids
Other summer safety tips
Here are some other tips to keep you and your family safe in South Mississippi this summer, according to the MSDH:
- Use an insect repellent and remove sources of standing water around your home to avoid mosquito-borne illnesses
- Wear sunscreen rated SPF-15 or higher to protect your skin from sunburn and melanoma
- Stay safe around water by never swimming alone, watching children, learning CPR and avoiding alcohol while around water
- Keep foods chilled to reduce foodborne illness
- Don’t leave babies or toddlers in cars
- Check in on older, vulnerable adults
- Drink plenty of water
