Keep it cool, prepare for the summer heat

Summer is almost here and extreme heat days are not far behind. With that in mind, Wisconsin residents need to be aware of the signs and symptoms of heat-related illness, and to take steps to prevent getting sick.

In 2020, 689 people went to the emergency department, 67 people were hospitalized and seven people died in Wisconsin, because of heat-related causes. Emergency department visits were highest among younger populations aged 15-34, while hospitalizations were most frequent among those aged 65 and older.

“Temperatures in Wisconsin, are projected to keep increasing over time, due to climate change,” said Dr. Jon Meiman, chief medical officer of the Bureau of Environmental and Occupational Health.

Some people are more likely to get sick from the heat, including older adults and younger children; people who work outside, people attending summer festivals; people without access to air conditioning; and people who take certain medications like diuretics (“water pills”) or psychotropics.

The following tips help people and pets stay cool on hot days:

• Stay in air conditioning. When possible, stay in air conditioning on hot days. If a residence doesn’t have air con- cool.

• Check on loved ones. Be sure to check on older friends and neighbors who live alone.

• Avoid the hottest part of the day. If outside, stick to the cooler morning and evening hours. Wear light, loose clothing and take frequent, air conditioned or shade or a pet in a parked car, even for a short time. On an 80 degree day, the temperature inside a car can reach 100 degrees in less than 10 minutes.

• Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water on hot days. Avoid alcohol and hot, heavy meals.

• Stay informed. Watch local weather forecasts to plan outdoor activities safely. Pay attention to any extreme heat alerts.

If someone starts feeling overheated, weak, dizzy, nauseated or has muscle cramps, they could have heat illness. To combat that, move to air conditioning, drink water, get under a fan and put on cool washcloths. If symptoms worsen or don’t improve, go to the emergency room.

ditioning, head to libraries, malls and other public spaces to keep breaks.

• Beware of hot cars. Never leave a person