The Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) is encouraging Iowans to take precautions during the hot days of August. The reminder comes on the heels of very high temperatures statewide and the start of the Iowa State Fair.
"This is the time of year when people are outside for day-long events, such as county fairs or the state fair," said Dr. Patricia Quinlisk, state epidemiologist at IDPH. "It's important to avoid heat-related illnesses by taking a few simple precautions."
Drink plenty of water and non-alcoholic, non-sugary fluids. As many as 2 to 4 glasses of cool water per hour may be necessary during activities such as walking the midway at the fair.
The elderly, young children and those with some medical conditions are most susceptible to heat-related illnesses. Take special care to keep them hydrated and cool.
Stay indoors in a cool area during the hottest times of the day if possible. Several buildings at the state fair are air-conditioned.
Dr. Quinlisk stressed it is important to watch for signs of heat-related illness and take action immediately.
Heat exhaustion: watch for faintness, rapid pulse, pale sweaty skin, stomachache or headache. When those symptoms occur, stop activity, get to a cool place, and drink plenty of cool water or re-hydrating fluids. Do not drink alcohol, coffee, caffeinated soft drinks, or highly sugared drinks.
Heat stroke: watch for confusion on the part of the victim, who may also stop sweating, resulting in hot, red, dry skin. Seek medical assistance immediately.
Dehydration: If you are thirsty or have dark yellow urine you are dehydrated. Drink cool water or re-hydrating fluids. -Iowa Department of Public Health
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