Community Corner
Staying Safe and Avoiding Heat Exhaustion in the Summer
The Burnsville fire chief provides warning signs of heat exhaustion and gives suggestions on how to stay safe on a hot day.
When enjoying outdoor activities during the summer, it's important to be aware of the heat and be safe.
Burnsville Fire Chief B.J. Jungmann released the following statement on heat exhaustion.
The heat index combines temperature and humidity and measures the combined temperature felt by the body. The cooling effects of perspiration are reduced as humidity rises, and your body is unable to cool itself naturally. Anyone can be overcome by heat exhaustion, particularly the elderly, disabled or small children.
If working outside on a warm day, it is important to drink plenty of fluids, take measure to keep cool and know the symptoms of heat exhaustion.
Early warning signs include:
- decreased energy
- loss of appetite
- faintness
- feeling lightheaded
- nausea
People with these symptoms should seek a cool place, drink fluids, remove excess clothing and get rest.
Signs that require immediate medical attention include rapid heartbeat, severe headache, chest pain, confusion, vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing and unconsciousness. Call 9-1-1 if you encounter these symptoms.
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Those interested in more information can call the Burnsville Fire Department at 952-895-4570, or view information on www.burnsville.org/fire.
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