Columbia-Richland Fire Department

July 12, 2011

Heat Safety
Interim Columbia-Richland Fire Chief Jenkins stated that heat injuries are dangerous and can be life threatening. If you are working or playing out side take breaks and drink plenty of water. Also, remember to check on elderly neighbors in your community. Cooling stations are currently open for the next two days (July 13 and 14) from 10:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. at the locations listed below and will reopen when heat advisories are issued by the National Weather Service. Gable Oaks Apartments Rosewood Park Hyatt Park Greenview Park Lorick Park Drew Wellness splash pad Sims Park Emily Douglas Hampton Park Heathwood Park Finlay Park Riverfront Park Edisto Discovery Park

Chief Aubrey Jenkins continued to state that anyone can be affected by the heat of the summer sun and with the expected heat index to exceed 100 degrees over the next two days the ColumbiaRichland Fire Department encourages the citizens of the City of Columbia and Richland County to follow the heat safety tips below. Heat Safety Tips:

During the hottest hours of the day, stay inside. If possible stay inside an air-conditioned building. During the hottest summer months the CDC recommends visiting elderly family or friends twice a day. Get to know the neighbors isolated elderly adults are at a much higher risk of heat related health problems and death.

Supervise children children rely on adults to tell them when to come inside, when to drink water, and what sort of clothing to wear. It doesnt take long for a childs small body to become overheated. Dress lightly and when sleeping uses lightweight breathable covers. Drink plenty of water. People who live in homes with no air conditioning should keep blinds closed from morning until the late afternoon to block extra direct heat from sunlight. Also, stay on the lowest level of your home. Never ever leave a child or pet in the car while you run to do a quick errand. If you see any of the exhaustion signs listed below get out of the heat immediately. Give the person plenty of cool fluids and wipe them down with cool cloths. If they dont improve rapidly call 911.

The signs of heat exhaustion include:

Clammy skin Loss of color in skin Sweating A tired, overestimated look on someones face Dry mouth Headache

The signs of major heat stroke:

High body temperatures (over 103 degrees F) Confusion Poor breathing if you cant hear a person breathing it can indicate a problem Seizures The person has stopped sweating Weak pulse Hot dry skin to the touch Fainting or total loss of consciousness