June 22, 2010 - SFD offers Safety Tips for Combating Sweltering Summer Heat

Summer officially began yesterday, but the extremely hot temperatures have plagued our area for weeks.

While local meteorologists predict temperatures to reach 100 degrees over the next few days, the Shreveport Fire Department urges all citizens use extreme caution and minimize prolonged exposure to this potentially dangerous summer heat.
The Shreveport Fire Department offers the following safety tips to help citizens remain cool and safe during the hot season:

● Stay inside a cool air-conditioned area, if possible.
● Don’t leave children or pets in the car.
● If you must work outside, do so shortly after daybreak and/or just before nightfall.
● Wear a hat or cap, keep the neck covered and wear loose fitting clothing. Wearing a hat is important because it prevents heat load by acting as a barrier from the heat source. Cooling the head and neck may be an effective means of reducing core body temperature.
● If working in extreme temperatures, do so in increments and pace yourself.
● Drink plenty of water. Drink before you’re thirsty, and drink often.
● Replace electrolytes with sports drink such as Gatorade or Powerade. Avoid using table salt or salt tablets.
● Use the buddy system and regularly check on the elderly
● Keep close watch on infants and children up to four years of age
● Dial 9-1-1 if you experience or witness a heat-related emergency with symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, confusion, throbbing headache, muscle cramps, heavy sweating or weakness.