The Springfield-Greene County Health Department is reminding the community of the dangers of heat-related illness with a heat advisory being in effect in the area Tuesday and Wednesday.
What They’re Saying: SGCHD says that friends and family of those more susceptible to heat-related illness, those being elderly, very young children, pregnant people, and people with chronic health conditions, should check in on them during times of excessive heat.
What’s at Stake: The main heat-related illnesses the department warns of are heat exhaustion, which can present as the person getting sweaty, dizzy, nauseous, etc., and heat stroke, which presents similarly to heat exhaustion but is much more dangerous as the person’s internal body temperature could be too high. If a person is showing signs of having heat stroke, they should be taken to the hospital immediately.
What It Means: SGCHD advises that you take precautions when it comes to excessive heat. Some things you can do are drink plenty of water, avoid work during the hottest times of the day, wear lightweight or loose-fitting clothing, wear a hat, sunscreen, and sunglass, and never leave anyone in a parked, closed car.
Taking precautions with pets too is the best way to keep them from any risks as well. Do not leave your dog in a parked, closed vehicle, do not leave them outdoors unattended for long periods of time, and make sure they have access to cool, fresh drinking water and shelter.
The health department also has cooling centers available for those without air-conditioning available. You can find those at health.springfieldmo.gov/heat.