know the signs of heat illness

portions of our service area often reach dangerously high temperatures, and because hurricane season lands in the height of summertime – it gets hot. if you’re without power, stay cool and drink plenty of fluids to prevent heat-related illness. 

the best way to avoid a heat-related illness is to limit your time outdoors on hot days. according to the centers for disease control and prevention:

• drink fluids, even if you don't feel thirsty.
• wear loose, lightweight clothing and a hat.
• replace salt lost from sweating by drinking fruit juice or sports drinks.
• avoid spending time outdoors during the hottest part of the day, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• wear sunscreen; sunburn affects the body's ability to cool itself.
• air conditioning is the best way to cool off; if you are using a generator, do so safely.

keep an eye out for others

when working in the heat, monitor the condition of those around you. heat-induced illness can cause a person to become confused or lose consciousness. if you are 65 years of age or older, have a friend or relative call to check on you twice a day during a heat wave. if you know someone in this age group, check on them at least twice a day. 

know the signs

the cdc identifies signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses and how to treat them, including:

• heat stroke: this is a medical emergency. if you suspect that you are experiencing heat stroke, call 911 immediately. body temperature may be 103 degrees or higher; skin is hot, red, dry or damp; pulse is fast and strong; you may experience a headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion or a loss of consciousness.
• heat exhaustion: you may experience heavy sweating, muscle cramps or similar symptoms to a heat stroke. seek medical attention right away if you’re throwing up or your symptoms worsen.
• heat cramps: could experience heavy sweating and muscle pain or spasms. seek medical attention right away if your cramps last longer than one hour.
• sunburn: painful, red, warm or blistered skin. stay out of the sun, and care for your skin.
• heat rash: red patches of blisters on the skin. try to stay in a cool, dry place. and take care of the rash.

call 1-800-9outage (1-800-968-8243) to report downed power lines