PG County Man Is State's First Heat Death In 2018

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY, MD -- A Prince George's County man has died from the heat, the first such death in Maryland so far this year.

The Maryland Department of Health gave almost no details on the man, describing him only as an adult between the ages of 18 and 44. There is no information on when or where in the county this occurred. There were a total of five heat-related deaths in Maryland last year.

“Extreme heat can raise the body’s temperature, leading to heat exhaustion or heat stroke,” said Maryland Department of Health Deputy Secretary for Public Health, Howard Haft, MD, in a statement. “Stay in the air conditioning whenever possible, drink lots of water, and don’t forget sunscreen.”

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The Maryland Department of Health monitors temperature conditions and heat-related deaths from May through September, publishing weekly reports.

"The Maryland Department of Health reminds individuals to never leave pets or children inside hot cars, which can be deadly," the department advises. "Check on those who are at a higher risk of heat-related illness, including children under the age of five, people over the age of 65, people with chronic illnesses and disabilities, and people taking certain medications."

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Heat-related illnesses happen more commonly when it is humid outside.

"The body normally cools itself by sweating," according to the Maryland Department of Health website. "As sweat evaporates from the skin, it lowers body temperature. But on hot, humid days, moisture in the air keeps sweat from evaporating fast enough. When this happens, body temperature can rise and make you feel sick."

In this scenario, you run the risk of the following illnesses, as listed by the Maryland Department of Health:

• Heat cramps: Short, severe cramps in the muscles of the leg, arm, or abdomen. This can happen during or after heavy exercise in extreme heat. Heavy sweating uses the body’s supply of salts, which causes cramps. Heat cramps also may be a symptom of heat exhaustion.
• Heat exhaustion: Occurs when a person spends time in a hot environment without drinking enough fluids. Symptoms include extreme thirst, fatigue, weakness, clammy skin, nausea or vomiting, and rapid breathing.
• Heat stroke: The most serious heat-related illness. Heat stroke occurs when body temperature rises to as much as 106°F or higher within 10 to 15 minutes. Heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability if emergency treatment is not provided. Symptoms of heat stroke include red, hot, and dry skin, no sweating, and rapid, weak pulse.

Image via National Weather Service