Originally Published: July 20, 2018
With the
National Weather Service of Mobile predicting the hottest weekend of the year, Escambia County encourages residents to practice heat safety and know the potential risks associated with high temperatures. The NWS is forecasting a heat index of 107 degrees for the Escambia County area on Saturday, and a heat index of 109 degrees on Sunday. Heat advisories may also be issued over the weekend.
Follow these tips to stay safe in the heat:
- NEVER leave a child, pet or anyone else in a parked vehicle, even for a short amount of time or with the windows rolled down. Temperatures inside a vehicle can become deadly within minutes.
- Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water, even if you are not thirsty.
- Limit strenuous outdoor activities. If you must be outside, find shade, stay hydrated and take frequent breaks.
- Remember to check on the elderly, sick and those without air conditioning.
- Wear light, loose-fitting clothing. Wear sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
- Stay in an air conditioned area if possible. Air conditioning is the strongest protective factor against heat-related illness.
Know the warning signs of heat stroke and heat exhaustion:
Heat exhaustion:
- Feeling faint or dizzy
- Excessive sweating
- Cool, pale, clammy skin
- Nausea or vomiting
- Rapid, weak pulse
- Muscle cramps
Heat stroke:
- Throbbing headache
- No sweating
- Body temperature above 103 degrees
- Red, hot, dry skin
- Nausea or vomiting
- Rapid, strong pulse
- May lose consciousness
If there are symptoms of heat stroke, call 911 and take immediate action to cool the person until help arrives. If there are symptoms of heat exhaustion, get to a cooler, air conditioned place, drink water (if fully conscious), and take a cool shower or use a cold compress.
To learn more about heat safety, visit
weather.gov/heat. For safety tips and other updates from Escambia County, like
Escambia County Emergency Management on Facebook.
