COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – The Branch-Hillsdale-St. Joseph Community Health Agency says you should be aware of the warning signs of heat illness during this heat wave.
They point out about 300 people in the United States die every year from extreme heat exposure.
That is more than hurricanes, lightening, tornadoes, floods and earthquakes combined.
Health Officer Rebecca Burns says older Americans and young children are at particular risk for heat illness. She adds when heat advisories or warnings are issued, check on your neighbors, friends, and family to ensure their health and safety.
People suffer heat-related illness when their bodies are unable to compensate and properly cool themselves. The body normally cools itself by sweating. When the humidity is high, sweat will not evaporate as quickly, preventing the body from releasing heat quickly.
You can beat the heat by taking a cool shower or bath, drinking more nonalcoholic fluids and stay indoors by the air conditioning as much as possible.
