PALM BEACH COUNTY, FL (Boca Post) (Copyright © 2023) — PBCFR responded to more than double the amount of heat-related injury calls in July compared to the year before.

According to Palm Beach County Fire Rescue, the agency responded to 73 heat-related injuries in July. That is more than double than the 35 heat-related calls that firefighters responded to in July of 2022.

As South Florida continues to experience a prolonged heat emergency, PBCFR is encouraging residents to stay safe and cool by drinking plenty of water, staying in shaded areas, and avoiding any strenuous activities in the heat.

The National Weather Service issues a heat advisory/heat warning when the following criteria are expected:

Image Credit: Noaa

The current heat emergency is expected to last through the end of summer. PBCFR is urging everyone to take precautions to stay safe and cool.

Follow these safety tips for outdoor activities:

• High temps can cause brain and organ damage.
• Limit outdoor activities to cooler temperatures – early morning/early evening, overcast skies.
• Stay in the shade, wear hats that canopy your face, ears, and neck.
• Stay hydrated! Drink plenty of fluids every hour and set reminders on your phone to remind you.
• Avoid alcoholic beverages – they increase urination and dehydration – causing fluid loss.
• Recognize your limits and pay attention to your body’s warning signs. If you feel “off” – something is wrong.

Too much heat exposure? WARNING SIGNS & FIRST AID

• HEAT EXHAUSTION – the body loses water and salt with heavy sweating. Thirst, pale cool skin, weak, dizzy, headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle cramps, fainting, decreased urine output. First Aid – Cool down in A/C or shade if A/C is not available. Drink & soak in cool fluids. Call 911 if condition worsens.

Without proper hydration, rest and cooling, heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke.

• HEAT STROKE is a true medical emergency! The body’s temperature controls fail. Sweating stops, skin is red, hot, and dry. Body temperature keeps rising (up to 106°F), headache, dizziness, nausea, and confusion can lead to unconsciousness, permanent brain and organ damage, or death. Call 911 immediately! Get to a cooler area, remove restrictive clothing, apply cool wet cloths to the neck, armpits and groin.

EXTRA Vulnerable population:

• People with chronic health conditions.
• Expectant mothers, young children, and older adults.
• Pets – OVERHEAT FASTER THAN HUMANS!! Limit outdoor visits to the coolest day and evening hours. Ask a Veterinarian for details concerning your pet.