Lexington Officials Warns About Hot Weather! 5 Things You Need To Know

Press release from the Town of Lexington:

July 20, 2020

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers lots of good information about how to stay healthy in the heat and humidity of summer.

For many people, warm weather is a time for fun-filled outdoor activities. However, hot weather and outdoor activities don’t always mix well, especially during periods of extreme heat — times when temperatures are substantially hotter and/or more humid than average.

Extreme heat can cause people to suffer from heat-related illness, and even death. People suffer heat-related illness when their bodies are unable to properly cool themselves. Older adults, young children, and people with chronic medical conditions are at high risk for heat-related illness and death.

When temperatures are extremely high, take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones:

• Drink plenty of fluids (nonalcoholic), regardless of your activity level.
• Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
• NEVER leave anyone or pets in a closed, parked vehicle.

Here are 5 things about Beating the Heat from the CDC:

1. Extreme Heat — Infographic

2. Avoid Spot Treat: Heat Stroke & Heat Exhaustion — Infographic

3. How to Stay Cool in Extreme Heat — Video

4. Warning Signs and Symptoms of Heat-Related Illness — Infographic

5. Frequently Asked Questions About Extreme Heat

Between 1999 and 2010, a total of 7,415 people in the US died from exposure to excessive natural heat.

Between 2001 and 2010, almost 20,000 people in Massachusetts were hospitalized for heat stress.

This press release was produced by the Town of Lexington. The views expressed here are the author’s own.