Heat Advisory for Jackson County, 7/23-7/24

Jackson County is currently under a heat advisory that will last until tomorrow at 7PM. With the Jackson County Fair underway it’s extra important to know about heat related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Heat exhaustion occurs when your body overheats by not being able to cool itself fast enough, and is more likely to occur when working in higher temperatures and humilities, like what we are currently experiencing. Symptoms include Heavy sweating, Faintness, Dizziness, Fatigue, Weak rapid pulse, Low blood pressure upon standing, Muscle cramps, Nausea, & Headache. If you or someone you know might be experiencing heat exhaustion, Stop all activity and rest, Move to a cooler place, & Drink cool water or sports drinks. If symptoms don’t improve within 1 hour, contact a doctor.

Heat stroke is the more severe case of heat sickness, with the Mayo Clinic stating “Heatstroke needs emergency care. If it’s not treated, heatstroke can quickly damage the brain, heart, kidneys and muscles. This damage gets worse the longer treatment is delayed, which increases the risk of serious complications or death.” Symptoms include High body temperature, Change in mental state or behavior, Change in sweating pattern, Nausea and vomiting, Flushed skin, Rapid breathing, Racing heart rate, & Headaches. If you or someone you know is experiencing heat stroke, call 911 or emergency services immediately and get them inside shade or indoors. Remove any excess layers and cool them down by any means available, such as spraying with a garden hose, ice packs, and fans.

So while you’re out and enjoying the Jackson County Fair, or if you’re working in the heat and sun, make sure to stay well hydrated, take breaks from manual labor, and seek shade whenever possible. Stay safe out there!

Information and advice comes directly from The Mayo Clinic’s website about heat exhaustion and stroke.