With the temperature reaching well into the 90s this weekend comes greater risk for heat related illness.
Extreme heat and humidity can push the body to its limits, causing heat cramps and exhaustion. The DeKalb Fire Department says residents of urban areas are at a much greater risk. High heat hazards include:
-Heat Cramps: Muscle pain and spasms caused by heavy exertion. While not often severe, they are can be the first sign that the body is having trouble with heat.
-Heat Exhaustion: Typically occurs when people perform heavy exercise or work in hot and humid conditions. If not treated, body temperature will continue to rise and can lead to heat stroke.
-Heat or Sun Stroke: A life-threatening condition caused by a temperature too high for the body to compensate for. Brain damage and death can occur if the body isn’t cooled down.
The fire department says some ways to avoid health problems are staying hydrated, limiting exposure to the sun and avoiding strenuous work during the warmest parts of the day.
The DeKalb Senior Center, 330 Grove Street, and Public Library, 309 Oak Street, will be available as cooling centers during their normal operating hours. For more information on cooling centers and warm weather safety, visit the DeKalb Police Facebook page.