Heat Alert for Acworth, Metro Atlanta

The is issuing a heat advisory to local residents for the upcoming weekend. With temperatures expected to be over 100 degrees for the next several days, officials are encouraging all residents to take proper precautions to ensure a safe weekend.

Use the following tips to beat the heat:

• Drink plenty of water, even if you are not thirsty. Avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages as they can dehydrate the body.
• Dress for summer and if you have outdoor activities planned, try to do them early in the day or later in the evening and avoid the hottest part of the day.
• When spending time outside be sure to use sunscreen on exposed skin.
• DO NOT leave any pets or children in unattended vehicles. The inside of your vehicle can reach temps of 180-200 degrees.
• The elderly, infirm and youth are particularly vulnerable to increased temperature. Efforts should be made to limit their exposure to heat and to have them remain in an air conditioned environment.
• If you know of any residents who are elderly or infirm and that live alone, check on them to make sure they are ok.

Heat related emergencies and solutions:

• Heat cramps—painful spasms in muscles of the legs and abdomen, heavy sweating.
  
  • First aid: get out of the sun, take small sips of water. If nausea occurs discontinue the water.
• Heat exhaustion—heavy sweating, weakness, cool, pale, clammy skin, threaded pulse, fainting and vomiting are possible, temperature may be normal.
  
  • First aid: remove the person from the sun, loosen their clothes, place cool wet rags or cloths on them, try to get in an air conditioned environment. Take small sips of water, if vomiting continues, seek immediate medical attention.
• Heat stroke—body stops sweating, high body temperature, hot dry skin, rapid and strong pulse, possible unconsciousness.
  • First aid: Remove the person from the sun, reduce the body temp and immediately call 911.

If any of the above conditions occur, do not hesitate to call 911 for immediate medical attention.