Know the signs of heat illness

Portions of our service area often reach dangerously high temperatures, and because hurricane season lands in the height of summertime – it gets hot. If you’re without power, stay cool and drink plenty of fluids to prevent heat-related illness. 

The best way to avoid a heat-related illness is to limit your time outdoors on hot days. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

  • Drink fluids, even if you don't feel thirsty.
  • Wear loose, lightweight clothing and a hat.
  • Replace salt lost from sweating by drinking fruit juice or sports drinks.
  • Avoid spending time outdoors during the hottest part of the day, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
  • Wear sunscreen; sunburn affects the body's ability to cool itself.
  • Air conditioning is the best way to cool off; if you are using a generator, do so safely.

Keep an eye out for others

When working in the heat, monitor the condition of those around you. Heat-induced illness can cause a person to become confused or lose consciousness. If you are 65 years of age or older, have a friend or relative call to check on you twice a day during a heat wave. If you know someone in this age group, check on them at least twice a day. 

Know the signs

The CDC identifies signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses and how to treat them, including:

  • Heat stroke: This is a medical emergency. If you suspect that you are experiencing heat stroke, call 911 immediately. Body temperature may be 103 degrees or higher; skin is hot, red, dry or damp; pulse is fast and strong; you may experience a headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion or a loss of consciousness.
  • Heat exhaustion: You may experience heavy sweating, muscle cramps or similar symptoms to a heat stroke. Seek medical attention right away if you’re throwing up or your symptoms worsen.
  • Heat cramps: Could experience heavy sweating and muscle pain or spasms. Seek medical attention right away if your cramps last longer than one hour.
  • Sunburn: Painful, red, warm or blistered skin. Stay out of the sun, and care for your skin.
  • Heat rash: Red patches of blisters on the skin. Try to stay in a cool, dry place. And take care of the rash.

Call 1-800-9OUTAGE (1-800-968-8243) to report downed power lines