The National Weather Service recently issued an excessive heat watch for this weekend. Mobile Life Support Services, the largest emergency medical provider in the Hudson Valley, offers safety tips and advice for keeping cool while temperature and humidity levels continue to rise.

Each year, extreme heat causes more than 600 deaths, according to the Center for Disease Control (CDC). The primary heat-related illnesses are heat exhaustion, heat cramps and heat stroke. Taking measures to stay cool, remain hydrated and be informed can make the difference between life and death.

The primary factors that contribute to heat-related deaths and illnesses are high humidity and personal factors such as age, obesity and heart disease, among others. Additionally, the use of alcohol and prescriptions, such as diuretics, antihistamines, mood-altering or antispasmodic drugs, can impact an individual’s body’s ability to cool itself off during warm weather. Men and women over the age of 65 or younger than 2 years old are at the highest risk.

“The combination of extreme heat and humidity can put the body under increased stress, leading to illness and sometimes death. Young children and the elderly are most susceptible during periods of extremely hot and humid weather,” said Mobile Life President & CEO Scott Woebse. “It’s important to be aware of any heat-related advisories or warnings issued by the National Weather Service and to take additional precautions to remain cool and hydrated.”

Mobile Life recommends these tips to prevent heat-related illnesses:

• Take advantage of air conditioning. Remain in air-conditioned buildings as much as possible. Air conditioning is the number one way to prevent heat-related illness and death. For those without access to air-conditioned homes, contact a local health department or locate an air-conditioned shelter.
• Remain hydrated. Avoid dehydration by drinking more water than usual. It’s important to not wait until thirst presents itself; continually drink fluids throughout the day, but avoid beverages that contain alcohol, caffeine or a lot of sugar.
• Limit outdoor activities. Even those in good health can become ill due to the hot weather when participating in strenuous physical activities. Limit outdoor workouts during warmer weather, especially during peak temperatures.
• Take cool showers or baths. Reducing the temperature of the water during routine showers or baths can help cool down the body.
• Never leave children or pets in a parked car. Children’s body temperatures increase three to five times faster than adults’. Even when it’s 60 degrees outside, a car’s interior can reach 110 degrees within one hour, which can lead to vehicular heatstroke deaths.

In addition to taking measures to reduce the risk of heat-related illness, Mobile Life recommends paying close attention to local weather sources for the issuance of heat advisories and excessive heat warnings or watches.

To learn more about Mobile Life Support Services, visit www.mobilelife.com.