Protect Yourself From the Dangers of Extreme Heat

For many people, warm weather is a time for fun-filled outdoor activities. However, hot weather and outdoor activities don’t always mix well, especially during periods of extreme heat--- times when temperatures are substantially hotter and/or more humid than average for a location and date.

Extreme heat can cause people to suffer from heat-related illness, and even death. People suffer heat-related illness when their bodies are unable to properly cool themselves. Older adults, young children, and people with chronic medical conditions are at high risk for heat-related illness and death. From 1999 to 2010, a total of 7,415 people died of heat-related deaths in the United States, an average of about 618 deaths a year.

Warmer temperatures can mean higher ozone levels. Pay attention to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Air Quality Index when planning outdoor summer activities, especially if you have asthma or another lung disease.

Track extreme heat in your area. The CDC’s Tracking Network provides information you can use to protect yourself from extreme heat. The network contains U.S. data on heat-related deaths and illnesses from 27 states. You can use it to see if heat-related deaths and illnesses are rising or declining in your state or county.

When temperatures are extremely high, take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones:

• Stay cool, stay hydrated, and stay informed.
• If you do not have air conditioning, visit a shopping mall or public library for a few hours or call your local health department to find any heat-relief shelters in your area.
• Drink plenty of fluids (nonalcoholic), regardless of your activity level.
• Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
• NEVER leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, including pets.
• Visit older adults or others at risk at least twice a day and closely watch them for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

CDC urges everyone to learn about danger of extreme heat, know the potential risks to health, and discover ways stay healthy and safe. Learn more about the effects of extreme heat.