10 Hot Weather Safety Tips During LI Heat Wave

LONG ISLAND, NY - With temperatures expected to be near or above 90 degrees over the next several days, residents are advised to stay safe with several important hot weather safety tips.

The heat and humidity will arrive on Friday and stick around for awhile as temps top 90 degrees on parts of Long Island.

Click here for the full forecast.

The American Red Cross recommends the following top 10 tips in order to stay safe in the heat:

1. Never leave children or pets alone in enclosed vehicles.
2. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol.
3. Eat small meals and eat more often.
4. Avoid extreme temperature changes.
5. Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays.
6. Slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day. Postpone outdoor games and activities.
7. Use a buddy system when working in excessive heat.
8. Take frequent breaks if you must work outdoors.
9. Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning, who spend much of their time alone or who are more likely to be affected by the heat.
10. Check on your animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat.

Those exposed to high heat for a prolonged amount of time can fall victim to heat exhaustion or life-threatening heat stroke.

Heat exhaustion is marked by cramps in the legs or abdomen, heavy sweating, headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness and cool, moist or pale skin. If you suspect someone is suffering from heat exhaustion, move them to a cooler place, lower their body temperature and give them water. If the person refuses water, vomits or begins to lose consciousness, call 911 or the local emergency number.

Heat stroke, which occurs when the body's core temperature is 104 degrees Fahrenheit or above, is life threatening. Signs include hot, red skin, which can be either dry or moist, vomiting and changes in consciousness. If you suspect someone is suffering from heat stroke, call 911 immediately and lower their body temperature.

To lower a person's body temperature, try fanning the individual, spraying cool water on them or putting cool, wet cloths on them. In the case of heat stroke, quickly cool the person's body by immersing them up to their neck in cold water if possible. Otherwise, douse or spray the person with cold water, or cover the person with cold, wet towels or bags of ice.

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