Grant County Health Department explains heat-related illness

By Logan Bagett on Tuesday, August 15th, 2023 in Eastern/Southeast Oregon News More Top Stories

JOHN DAY – The Grant County Health Department has issued a press release regarding the extreme heat locally. The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Warning through Thursday for the John Day Basin, and a Heat Advisory for the rest of the county. T%emperatures above 100 degrees are expected.

Find the health department’s press release below:

(Press Release from the Grant County Health Department)

Grant County has been dealing with several days of extreme heat. Grant County Health Department wants you to know that heat-related illnesses could be on the rise as well. Learn how to spot and give first aid for heat-related illness. Most importantly, learn how to prevent it in the first place.

“Many people can be at risk for heat-related illnesses like heat stroke and heat exhaustion during long periods of extreme heat,” says Trey Thompson. “Everyone should know how to prevent, spot and give first aid for heat-related illnesses.”

Anyone can suffer a heat-related illness. However, some are at higher risk. Those age 65 and older, with chronic health conditions, or who are overweight carry a higher risk, as do those who are athletes and outdoor workers. Those with low incomes may also be at risk for heat-related illness. They may not be able to afford air conditioning for their homes or might live outdoors where they are more exposed. Pay special attention to these groups to make sure they take steps to prevent heat-related illness.

Heat stroke is a serious illness. The body’s temperature can rise to 104 degrees or more. Signs of illness include red, hot skin, a rapid and strong pulse, and loss of consciousness. Heat stroke can come on quickly; serious signs of illness can occur within minutes. If someone has heatstroke, move the person to a cooler area right away, and call 911. While waiting for help, lower the body temperature using a cool bath or wet towels. Unlike heat exhaustion, victims of heat stroke are NOT to drink fluids.

Heat exhaustion is a milder heat-related illness. It develops when there have been several days of high temperatures, and a person becomes dehydrated. Signs of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, extreme weakness, cold, pale, and clammy skin, fast or weak pulse, or nausea. Victims may also vomit or faint. Treat heat exhaustion with rest in a cool, shaded area. Give the person many sips of liquids and apply cool, wet cloths. Call a health care provider if the person is on a low-sodium diet or has health problems.

You can prevent heat-related illnesses. Drink plenty of non-alcoholic, low sugar fluids. Alcohol can keep your body from cooling itself properly. Some medications have similar effects. Call your health care provider if you have questions about the heat and your medication. Wear loose-fitting, lightweight and light-colored clothes. Take it easy when outdoors. Athletes and those who work outdoors should take frequent short breaks. Schedule physical activity during the morning or evening when it is cooler. You can also relocate activities to air-conditioned facilities.

Stay in air-conditioned areas. If your home is not air-conditioned, consider a visit to a public library or shopping center. You can also stay with family or friends who have air conditioning. Keep children in air-conditioned areas too. NEVER leave kids in a car even with the windows cracked. Take them with you.
Check on elderly relatives or neighbors at least twice a day. Make sure they have a cool place to live in during extreme heat.
Pets can get heat-related illnesses too. Make sure you keep them cool and that they have plenty of water.