MADISON -- State health officials are urging people to learn how to avoid dangers associated with extreme heat -- and they're doing so in advance of Wisconsin Heat Awareness Day which is Thursday, June 14th.
The warning comes in anticipation of high temperatures for Father's Day Weekend.
In a release issued Wednesday morning, June 13th, State Health Officer Dr. Henry Anderson said: "Sustained temperatures above 90 degrees pose a risk of heat-related illness and death, especially when humidity levels exceed 35 percent. The risk is highest for older adults and individuals with chronic illnesses, or for individuals taking medications that inhibit perspiration and the body's natural cooling process."
When temperatures are above 90 degrees, officials recommend the following actions:
• To avoid dehydration, make it a point to drink more fluids during hot weather. Rapid weight loss may be a sign of dehydration.
• Do not plan strenuous activities during the warmest part of the day.
• Individuals at highest risk should spend the hottest part of the day in a cool, preferably air-conditioned place.
• Use fans to increase ventilation unless temperatures exceed 90 degrees, at which point fans become ineffective in reducing heat-related illness.
• Take action to reduce body temperatures if heat-related symptoms appear.
• Make frequent checks on the status of elderly or ill relatives or neighbors. If necessary, move them to an air-conditioned environment during the hottest part of the day.
For more information on heat-related health concerns, CLICK HERE.