Officials Warn Of Heat Stroke As Temperatures Soar In Nashua

NASHUA, NH - Officials are warning Greater Nashua residents to take precautions against heat-related illness as excessive heat and humidity are expected to last through Thursday.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, heat stroke is the most serious heat-related illness. It occurs when the body can no longer control its temperature as the sweating mechanism fails, the agency said, adding that when heat stroke occurs, the body temperature can rise to 106°F or higher within 10 to 15 minutes.

The agency said that symptoms of heat stroke can include confusion, altered mental status, slurred speech, loss of consciousness, hot, dry skin or profuse sweating, and seizures.

State health officials added in a news release Thursday that anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool, shaded location and drink water while waiting for help.

Officials shared a list of available cooling centers Thursday, adding that Nashua Transit Bus is offering passengers free rides to the cooling centers Thursday only.

Nashua Soup Kitchen and Shelter - 2 Quincy Street

10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Pheasant Lane Mall - 310 Daniel Webster Highway

10 a.m.-8 p.m.

Nashua YMCA - 24 Stadium Drive

8 a.m.-9 p.m.

Nashua Public Library - 2 Court Street

9 a.m. -9 p.m.

New Fellowship Baptist Church - 50 Ash Street

1 p.m.-5 p.m.

Officials also offered the following advice for staying safe:

• Drink plenty of water, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors.
• Monitor those at high risk. Although anyone at any time can suffer from heat-related illness, some people are at greater risk than others:
  • Infants and young children
  • People 65 years of age or older
  • People who overexert during work or exercise
  • People who are physically ill, especially with heart disease or high blood pressure, or who take certain medications, such as for depression, insomnia, or poor circulation
• Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles.
• Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. Schedule frequent breaks in shared or air-conditioned environments.
• Limit the use of appliances, such as your dryer, dishwasher, and oven to avoid unwanted heat indoors.
• When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening.
• Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing when possible.
• Learn the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses and how to treat them.