With a heat wave bringing dangerous temperatures to Green Bay this week, it’s important to know about heat safety.
An extreme heat warning is in effect until 7 p.m. June 30 for Brown, Outagamie, Waupaca, Waushara, Winnebago, Calumet, Portage, Wood, Shawano and Marathon counties. The warning advises people to drink fluids, stay in air conditioned spaces, and try not to stay in the sun for too long.
According to the state Department of Health Services, people between 15 and 34 years old are most likely to visit the emergency room for heat-related illnesses. Certain medications or chronic conditions can also make people more affected by heat.
With the heat index rising possibly up to 109 degrees, here are symptoms of heat-related sicknesses to watch for, where to find a cooling center in Brown County, and how to keep your pets safe.
What are signs of heat stroke?
Heat stroke can happen when your body overheats. If you think you are experiencing heat stroke, call 911 or have someone call for you. Don’t get anything to drink. Instead, move to a cool place and try to cool down with a bath, wet towels, spraying a garden hose, or whatever is available.
The following are symptoms to look out for:
What is heat exhaustion?
Heat exhaustion is a less severe condition than heat stroke, but you should still try to stop your body from overheating. Try to cool down by drinking cool fluids or moving to the shade or indoors.
Symptoms can include:
Tips to stay cool
Stay hydrated
Cooling centers in Brown County
There are two designated cooling sites available in the Green Bay area. Anyone can stop by the cooling centers to get a break from heat or drink water.
How to keep your pets safe
If it’s hot outside, it can feel even hotter for your pet. Here are some tips for keeping them cool from the American Veterinary Medical Association:
Contact Benita Mathew at bmathew@usatodayco.com.
This article originally appeared on Green Bay Press-Gazette: Is it heat stroke or exhaustion? Safety tips for Green Bay heat wave
Reporting by Benita Mathew, Green Bay Press-Gazette / Green Bay Press-Gazette
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By Benita Mathew, Green Bay Press-Gazette | USA TODAY Network
