Public Health

Know your National Weather Service terminology and what they mean!

1. Heat Index – A measure indicating what the temperature feels like to the human body. It is when relative humidity is combined with the air temperature.
2. Heat Watch – This is issued when conditions are favorable for excessive heat in the next 24-72 hours
3. Heat Advisory – This is issued within 12 hours of the start of extremely dangerous heat conditions. The National Weather Service will issue a heat advisory for Wisconsin when the daytime heat index values are 100 to 104. A heat advisory will also be issued if heat indices are 95 to 99 for four consecutive days.
4. Excessive Heat Warning – This is issued within 12 hours of the onset of extremely dangerous heat conditions. It will be issued by the National Weather Service when the daytime heat index is 105 or higher during the day and 75 or higher at night for at least a 48-hour period. If heat indices are 100 to 104 for four consecutive days, an excessive heat warning will be issued.

How to prepare

• It is important to that during an extreme heat weather event, stay safe and cool and most importantly try to prepare for it. Some of the tips and tricks to prepare for extreme heat include
  1. Do not rely on fans as your primary method of cooling, as they create airflow and give a false sense of comfort, but not actually reduce body temperature.
  2. Cover windows with drapes or shades to reduce temperature
  3. Use window reflectors designed to reflect heat back outside
  4. Use a powered attic ventilator or attic fan to help regulate the temperature in your attic by removing hot air.
  5. Install insulation to block heat and add window air conditioners, ensuring the areas around them are properly insulated to retain cool air.

How to be safe during an extreme heat event

• During an extreme heat event, it’s crucial to stay safe and cool. Here are some tips to help you manage the heat effectively
  1. If air conditioning is not available in your home, find a cooling option.
  2. Take a cool shower or bath.
  3. Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
  4. Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
  5. If outside, find shade or wear a hat wide enough to protect your face from the harmful UV rays.
  6. Avoid high-energy activities or work outdoors during midday heat if possible.
  7. Check on family members, older adults and neighbors.
  8. Consider the safety of your pet. Make sure they have enough cool water if they are outside and have access to shade. Asphalt and dark pavements can become very hot for their feet.
  9. Never leave people, kids or pets in a closed car on a warm day.
  10. Watch for heat related illnesses

Heat Stroke

•  Signs
  1. Extremely high body temperature (above 103 degrees F) taken orally
  2. Red, hot and dry skin with no sweat
  3. Rapid, strong pulse
  4. Dizziness, confusion or unconsciousness
• Actions to take: If someone is experiencing heat stroke, call 9-1-1 or get them to a hospital immediately. If possible, move the person to a cool, shaded area, remove any outer clothing, and apply a cold, wet cloth or ice packs to their head, neck, armpits, and groin. You can also soak their clothing in cool water and elevate their feet to help lower their body temperature.

Heat cramps

• Signs: Muscle pains or spasms in the stomach, arms or legs

Heat exhaustion

• Signs: Heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, fast or weak pulse, dizziness, headache, fainting, nausea, vomiting
• Actions to take: If you experience signs of heat cramps or heat exhaustion, move to a cooler area, remove excess clothing, and hydrate with small sips of sports drinks or water. If symptoms worsen or persist for more than an hour, contact your healthcare provider.

• There are also fun ways to stay cool during extreme heat while also being safe. 
  1. Go to your local public pool or head to the beach for a day of sun, sand and fun.
  2. Invite your friends and family for an ice cream social.
  3. Have a splash splash water ballon party with loved ones.
  4. Make homemade popsicles with your favorite fruit.
• Be sure to wear sunscreen, a hat for added shade, and stay hydrated to beat the heat.