The National Weather Service is warning of a multi-day heat event that will stretch from Wednesday through Saturday, bringing temperatures ranging from the mid-90s to 110 degrees across much of Southern California.
Extreme heat warnings, advisories and red flag warnings are in effect until Saturday evening.
State health officials warn that prolonged exposure to high temperatures can damage the brain and other vital organs. Health conditions, including obesity, heart disease, and drug and alcohol use can make it harder for the body to stay cool in hot weather.
Here’s what you need to know about preventing and treating heat-related illnesses, according to the California Department of Public Health:
Prevention
- Drink plenty of water.
- Stay in air-conditioned areas.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing and apply sunscreen.
- Schedule outdoor activities for the morning or evening, avoiding the hottest part of the day.
- Pace yourself when exercising outdoors.
- Check on friends and family during a heat wave, and watch for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
How to Spot and Treat Heat Illness
Heat stroke
Heat stroke occurs when the body can no longer regulate its temperature, and the core temperature rises rapidly. The body loses the ability to sweat and cool itself. Warning signs include red, hot, dry skin; very high body temperature; dizziness; confusion; unusual behavior; unconsciousness; rapid pulse; or a throbbing headache.
What to do:
- Call 911 immediately.
- Move the person to a shady area.
- Cool them with a shower, garden hose or cold compresses.
- Place cold, wet cloths on the head, neck, armpits and groin.
- Do not give the person fluids to drink.
- If emergency help is delayed, call a hospital for instructions.
Heat exhaustion
Heat exhaustion happens when the body loses too much water and salt through sweat. Symptoms include heavy sweating, cramps, headache, nausea or vomiting, fatigue, weakness, dizziness and fainting. Without treatment, it can progress to heat stroke.
What to do:
- Have the person drink cool, nonalcoholic beverages.
- Encourage rest while lying down.
- Use a cool shower, bath or sponge bath.
- Move them to an air-conditioned environment.
- Seek medical help if symptoms are severe or the person has heart problems or high blood pressure.
Heat cramps
Heat cramps are painful muscle spasms, often in the stomach or legs, triggered by heavy activity and excessive sweating. They are caused by the loss of water and salt from the body.
What to do:
- Stop all activity and rest in a cool place.
- Drink water or a sports beverage.
- Rest for several hours before resuming activity.
- Get medical help if cramps last more than one hour.
- Seek immediate care if the person has a heart condition or is on a low-sodium diet.
Sunburn
Sunburn happens when the skin becomes red, painful and warm after sun exposure. Sunburn damages the skin and increases the risk of more serious illnesses.
What to do:
- See a doctor if the victim is an infant under 1 year old or develops fever, blisters or severe pain.
- Stay out of the sun until the burn heals.
- Bathe the affected area with cool water.
- Apply moisturizing lotion, but avoid salves, butter or ointments.
- Do not break blisters.
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