Cuyahoga County –Extreme Heat is the number one weather-related killer in the United States, claiming more lives each year than floods, lightning, tornadoes and hurricanes combined. The Cuyahoga County Office of Emergency Management stresses awareness of the dangers of upcoming heat, especially with hot temperatures and combined with high humidity – all greatly increase the chances for developing heat disorders.

Knowing the differences between Heat Cramps, Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke can save lives. Heat Cramps are muscular pains and spasms due to heavy exertion. Heat cramps are non-life threatening. Heat Exhaustion occurs when people overexert themselves in hot and humid conditions. If untreated, heat exhaustion may cause a victim to suffer heat stroke.

Heat Stroke, aka Sun Stroke, damages the body’s temperature control system, which regulates perspiration. A victim experiencing heat stroke can suffer brain damage or death if they do not receive proper medical care.

Listed below are a few tips to help you –Beat the H.E.A.T.

• Hydrate. Whether you feel thirsty or not, drink plenty of water to avoid becoming dehydrated, especially when working or exercising outside.

• Educate yourself. Know your local weather, temperature and heat index forecasts.
  Take actions to stay cool and safe when the temperatures hits eighty-five degrees or the heat index is ninety degrees. Know the warning signs of a heat illness, and how you can stay cool.

• Act quickly when a heat illness is suspected. Seek medical attention immediately for
  any of these warning signs: cramping, rapid pulse, heavy sweating, hot red skin, dizziness, confusion, nausea, vomiting.

• Take it easy. Anyone working or exercising outdoors should avoid overexertion, 
  especially between the hours of 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Take hourly breaks in the shade or in air conditioning.

The Cuyahoga County Office of Emergency Management’s mission is to protect lives, property, the environment, and the economy. For additional information, contact us at 216-443-5700 or online at http://ja.cuyahogacounty.us/en-US/emergency-management.aspx