Man In His 30s Is MD's First Heat Death Of 2020: Officials

BALTIMORE, MD — A man in his 30s died from the heat in Baltimore, Maryland health officials reported Monday. His death was the first heat-related fatality of 2020, officials said.

The state is in the midst of a heat wave expected to drive temperatures past 100 degrees on the heat index both Monday and Tuesday. Temperatures are expected to remain in the 90s through Thursday.

“As this tragedy shows, heat-related illnesses, heat exhaustion and heat stroke can result in serious ailments and even death,” Maryland Health Secretary Robert R. Neall said in a statement Monday.

Last year, 20 Marylanders died from the heat, state health data shows.

Anyone can become a victim of heat-related illness. People most at risk are those exercising or working outside; those younger than 5 or over 65; people with chronic illnesses; and people taking certain medications, according to the Maryland Department of Health.

"Especially as we’re seeing higher heat indexes across the state, Marylanders are urged to take precautions to avoid overheating and to know the signs at the onset of any heat-related illness so they can seek medical attention, if necessary," Neall said.

How To Identify Heat Illness

Heat illnesses can take several forms, from a heat rash to heat stroke.

When a person experiences heat stroke, the body is unable to control its temperature and the result can be fatal.

These are symptoms of heat stroke, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): hot, red, dry or damp skin; quick pulse; headache; dizziness; nausea; confusion; temperature of 103 degrees or hotter; and fainting.

If people exhibit symptoms of heat stroke, call 911 immediately and move them to a cooler area.

Here are things officials advise for staying safe in the heat:

• Reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening.
• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing.
• Drink plenty of water. Avoid alcohol, caffeine and sugary drinks.
• Take frequent, short breaks in the shade or air conditioning if working outside.
• Avoid direct sunlight.
• Wear sunblock.
• Do not take salt tablets, unless advised by a doctor to take them.
• Never leave pets or children in the car for any amount of time, even if the windows are cracked or the air conditioning is on.
• Check on elderly neighbors or relatives to ensure they have someplace cool to stay.

Call 2-1-1 for more information about cooling centers.

Here is the latest forecast from the national Weather Service.

See Also: Air Quality, Heat Put Maryland On Alert