Heat Is The #1 Killer

                                                                                                                                  

  www.readywisconsin.wi.gov

As we all know, the summer gets extremely hot here in Texas. Temperatures rise as high as 105°, and when the humidity is factored in, it could feel as hot as 115° through the Brazos Valley. During a long day of farming, construction work, or gardening it can get brutal out there, but if you take the necessary safety steps you will be able to beat the heat.

The National Atmospheric and Oceanic Administration (NOAA) released a report on weather related fatalities based on different phenomenon. From hurricanes, tornadoes, lightning, floods, and heat related deaths, heat came out as the number one killer on average over the past 10 years. According to NOAA, 117 deaths have occurred each year on average from 2003-2012 directly to heat. That’s more than flooding (76) and lightning (35) associated fatalities combine.

 

As a meteorologist, I understand it gets redundant that we mention to stay cool and hydrated, but there is a meaningful reason behind it listed above.

In order to minimize the opportunity for heat exhaustion or even stroke to develop you can follow several simple tips. Know that official recorded temperatures are reported in the shade. In direct sunlight, add 10° to 15°. Make sure to drink plenty of water, cold water is best, but no matter the temperature, staying hydrated is key. Additionally, make sure there is a place that is cool nearby to take frequent breaks if you are outdoors for an extended period of time. For any runners out there, it’s best to exercise before dawn and after dusk. Finally, if you are feeling dizzy, weak, sweating heavily, nauseous, or even sensing you might faint, stop what you are doing immediately and move indoors where the air conditioning will cool you down.

If you use these simple tips though the summer season, you will be able to battle heat, even at its worst. On one more note, don’t forget to slap on plenty of sunscreen too.

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