Summer in Florida can get hot and mix that with high humidity and other factors, making you feel terrible and very dangerous. Here’s a list of extreme weather events on the Emerald Coast and mitigating measures you can take:
Extreme heat can cause a range of symptoms and is particularly dangerous to certain groups like the elderly, babies, and people with chronic illnesses. It can affect anyone, but the potential harm increases with age. Let’s start with the general symptoms and hazards of extreme heat: Stay safe at the Beach, Boating and on the Golf Courses.
Heat Exposure Signs & Symptoms
- Dehydration: Individuals may feel extremely thirsty, have a dry mouth, or produce less urine.
- Heat Cramps: This involves muscle spasms usually resulting from heavy exercise in hot environments. Sweating depletes the body’s salt and moisture.
- Heat Exhaustion: Symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, confusion, nausea, headache, increased heart rate, or fainting.
- Heat Stroke: This is the most severe form. It is a life-threatening emergency and can cause a strong, rapid pulse, lack of sweating, dry flushed skin, high body temperature, strange behavior, hallucinations, confusion, agitation, seizure, or coma.
Dealing with the dangers is a matter of prevention, like staying well hydrated, using cooling devices, staying out of the sun during peak hours, etc. But in case you see symptoms of heat-related illnesses, including heat stroke, seek medical help immediately.
Monitoring The Heat Index While Visiting The Beach
The Heat Index measures how hot it feels when relative humidity is factored in with the actual air temperature. It doesn’t get identified for different age groups specifically. However, knowing that children, elderly, and people with certain health conditions are more vulnerable to heat, they should be extra cautious when the heat index is high.
For example, if the air temperature is 90°F and the relative humidity is 70%, then it will “feel” like 106°F. The National Weather Service would classify this as a “Danger” level heat index, meaning occupational, prolonged, or strenuous outdoor activities might result in heat-related illness if precautions are not taken. Further, if it “feels” 130°F or more, which is considered an “Extreme Danger” level, heat stroke is highly likely with continued exposure, and every necessary measure should be taken to reduce heat exposure.
Remember that individual responses to heat can vary, and those at the highest risk from heat-related illness include the very young, very old, and those with chronic diseases.
Heat Exposure Types and Tips to Avoid Over Exposure
- Extreme Heat:
- Stay Hydrated: Regular intake of water or electrolyte-filled drinks is crucial. Try to avoid alcoholic or caffeine beverages as they can induce dehydration.
- Stay Indoors: If possible, spend the hottest parts of the day indoors with air conditioning.
- Loose, Lightweight, Light-Colored Clothing: Dress in layers so you can adjust your clothing as needed. Light-colored clothing can help reflect heat. Use shades to keep the home or office cool during the hottest parts of the day.
- Use Sunscreen: Skin protection from strong UV rays is a must. Always ensure that your sunscreen is not expired, and apply it evenly and regularly.
- Avoid Strenuous Activities: Try to limit physical activities during the hottest parts of the day. If you must exercise, try to do it early morning or late afternoon when the temperatures are cooler.
- High Humidity:
- Keep Hydrated: Just as with extreme heat, keeping yourself hydrated during high humidity is also important. However, sweat does not evaporate as quickly, which can lead to heat exhaustion, so it’s advisable to stay indoors.
- Use a Dehumidifier: If you plan on staying indoors, using a dehumidifier can make the air indoors more comfortable.
- Dress Appropriately: Wear loose, breathable clothing. Opt for fabrics such as cotton that can aid in sweat evaporation.
- Limit Outdoor Activities: Limit outdoor activities that would cause you to sweat excessively and risk dehydration or heat-related illnesses.
- Sun Exposure:
- Sunscreen: Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. It’s important that you apply it generously and reapply every two hours, more often if you’re swimming or sweating.
- Protective Clothing: When possible, wear SPF protective clothes such as wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses. This will protect your skin and eyes against intense UV radiation.
- Seek Shade: Particularly between 10 am and 4 pm when the sun’s rays are strongest. Look for places with ample shade or create your own if necessary.
Always be alert for signs of heat stroke or heat exhaustion, which can include excessive sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, or fainting. If these symptoms occur, try to cool down and seek medical attention as necessary.
