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It’s another hot summer in Arizona. More than 400 people are already suspected to have died from heat-related causes in Maricopa County alone.
This was on my mind as I entered Welcome Diner a few nights ago and saw a stack of summer safety pamphlets from the city of Phoenix.
The pamphlets included information on heat exhaustion and heat stroke that I thought was really important, so I wanted to share it with you, just in case you need a refresher.
Heat exhuastion
Symptoms
- faint/dizzy feeling
- rapid/weak pulse
- excessive sweating
- cool/pale/clammy complexion
Action
- Move the person to a cooler area.
- Loosen clothing.
- Have the person sip cool water.
- Seek medical help if symptoms don’t improve.
Heat stroke
Symptoms
- rapid/strong pulse
- no sweating
- body temperature above 103 degrees
- red/hot/dry complexion
- possible loss of consciousness
Action
- Call 911.
- Move the person into a cool, shaded area.
- Loosen clothing and remove extra layers.
- Cool the person with water or ice.
Whether it’s a friend at a pool party, an elderly neighbor who lost AC, or a stranger on the street, you never know who may need help—so it’s a good idea to keep this info on hand.
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