With temperatures expected to feel near 100 degrees across much of Michigan this weekend and into next week, state health officials are urging residents to take precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses.
According to a June 20 news release from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, the organization warns that the combination of high heat and humidity can significantly increase the risk of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, particularly early in the season when residents are less acclimated to extreme temperatures.
“As daily temperatures rise above 80 degrees, emergency department visits for heat-related illnesses begin to increase,” the department said in a release. “These cases are often more common early in the summer, when people may not yet be taking the necessary precautions.”
Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II encouraged residents to stay cool and check on vulnerable neighbors.
“Limit time in the heat if you can. Stay hydrated. Check on those in your family or community who may need help,” Gilchrist said. “Those without access to air conditioning can text or call Michigan 211 or contact their local health department to find nearby cooling centers.”
Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, the state’s chief medical executive, emphasized that children, older adults and those with medical conditions are particularly at risk.
“Limit time in heat, stay hydrated, avoid direct sunlight and find somewhere with air conditioning or take cool showers,” she said.
MDHHS offers the following tips to prevent heat-related illness:
• Drink more fluids, avoiding sugary or alcoholic beverages
• Limit outdoor activity to morning and evening hours
• Spend time in air-conditioned buildings
• Wear lightweight, light-colored and loose-fitting clothing
• Use sunscreen, as sunburn can hinder the body’s ability to cool down
• Check on elderly neighbors and relatives who may need help
Officials also remind residents to never leave children or pets in parked cars, even with the windows cracked. Interior car temperatures can quickly rise to double the outside temperature, putting children at serious risk of heatstroke.
Signs of heat-related illness include heavy sweating, muscle cramps, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, fainting and an extremely high body temperature. Heatstroke, the most severe condition, can be fatal if not treated immediately. Anyone suspected of having heatstroke should receive medical help right away by calling 911 and initiating cooling efforts.
More information, including a downloadable heat safety fact sheet available in Spanish, is available on the MDHHS website.