Tips to keep you and your pets safe during extreme heat
Source: WTAJ - www.wtaj.com
Author: Leanna Wells
BLAIR COUNTY, Pa. (WTAJ) -- Summer is just a few days away, but the heat is already here. As of 7 p.m. on June 17, more than 76 million people in the U.S. are currently under active National Weather Service heat alerts.
"Sunscreen is a must if they're outside swimming, even though they're in the water and taking a break periodically, getting in the shade out of the sun," Justin Smithmyer, Altoona Fire Inspector.
As temperatures are expected to rise this week, most people will find a way to cool down, and it's important to stay safe while doing so.
"At home run air conditioning as much as you can. Stay cool if you don't have air conditioning. Find a place that does such as a shopping mall, you know, a local sports center or something like that that may be open to the public and go and spend some time there during peak hours, such as between 12 and 6," Smithmyer said.
You should also be mindful of the power grid. Run your air conditioner on a moderate setting, especially if you have more than one, so there's no strain on the power system.
The CDC says that people ages 65 and older are prone to more heat-related health problems because of chronic illnesses or medication that affect their body's ability to adjust to temperatures.
"Check on your neighbors, your family, and your friends, especially those that are elderly. That way, you know, you're making sure that they're safe, they're drinking," Smithmyer added.
Experts also recommend limiting your time outside to early morning or later in the evening when it's cooler. That can be hard though, especially when you're a kid.
"I either go to the water park or drink lots of water. Or I put a fan against my bed so I don't get overheated," Layla Edwards, who was playing at the Juniata Memorial Spray Park said.
You should also know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, and what to do if that happens.
"If you get severe, severe cramps, if your temperature rises above 103 and you stop sweating, you could potentially be having heat stroke. And at that point you want to seek medical attention, call 911," Smithmyer said.
WTAJ also spoke with the American Kennel Club (AKC) on safety tips for pets.
The AKC says that you should not leave your pets outside because it can be hazardous to their health. They recommend walking them in a grassy area and protecting their paws from the sidewalk using booties.
When you are on a walk with your dog, it's best to have fresh water at all times.
"They get dehydrated just like we get dehydrated. Too much fluid leaving their body. So you want to look for signs of lethargy, pale gums, panting over, salivating. These are all signs that your dog needs to be cooled down and they need to be cooled down immediately. And you should call your vet," Brandi Munden, Vice President of Communications & Public Relations at the American Kennel Club said.
Munden says that if it's too hot for you, it's too hot for your pet.