There’s an old joke about the weather in Missouri: If you don’t like it, just wait. It will change. Come summertime, a lot of us begin to think that’s just wishful thinking. Once the hot weather settles into Missouri, it seems like summer will never end.
Missouri summers are no joke. Conditions from late June through early September are often miserable. Near-triple-digit temperatures will sap anyone’s strength. Factor in high humidity and the long summer days are truly oppressive. It’s not unusual for the heat index, or “feels-like” temperature, to reach 115 or higher. Summertime heat isn’t just uncomfortable, it’s dangerous.
In 2018, there were 19 heat-related deaths in Missouri. Seniors are especially vulnerable, as many live alone without air conditioning, or they choose not to cool their homes for fear of high utility bills. Tragically, five Missouri children died last year because they were left in hot cars.
Even when not deadly, hyperthermia – a dangerous rise in the body’s internal temperature – can affect our health in a number of negative ways. This condition can vary from mild to extreme. It’s important to know the signs and what to do.
As our normal body temperature of 98.6 degrees begins to rise, we sweat heavily, our skin flushes red, we begin to experience muscle cramps or pain, feel light-headed, get headaches or become nauseous. These are all signs of heat fatigue.
Heat exhaustion takes hold as our condition worsens. We become extremely thirsty. Our skin may turn cold or clammy. Our pulse races. Nausea, headaches and cramps increase. We may vomit or experience diarrhea. We have difficulty concentrating or may feel faint. We can even pass out.
Once our internal body temperature reaches the 104 degree mark, we risk heat stroke. Symptoms are similar to heat exhaustion, but more severe. In extreme cases, we can experience seizures or organ failure. Coma and even death are also a possibility.
Regardless of the level of hyperthermia, the response is the same. You must cool your body’s internal temperature. Stop what you’re doing and move to a cool, shaded place with good air flow – an air-conditioned space is best, but a fan will help. Sip cool water or an electrolyte drink. Loosen or remove excess clothing. You may want to apply a wet cloth to your forehead or run cool water over your wrists. Take a cool bath or shower if necessary. If you suspect heat stroke, call 911 or seek medical attention.
To minimize the risks from extreme heat, schedule outdoor activities during the cooler morning hours or in the evening, avoiding the hottest part of the day. Take frequent breaks and drink lots of water. Wear loose-fitting, light colored clothing. Protect your face and head with a wide-brimmed hat. Keep interior spaces cool with air conditioning. Absent A/C, use fans and keep windows open.
Never leave pets or children in a car, not even for a few minutes. If you transport children in your back seat, stow your purse, backpack or cell phone next to them so you won’t leave your child behind when you get out of your car. If you know of older people living alone, check on them to make sure they’re OK. If you suspect an older or disabled person needs assistance, call Missouri’s Elder Abuse Hotline at 1-800-392-0210. The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services has tips for staying cool, and a map of cooling centers around the state, posted on its website at health.mo.gov.
If you’re like me, you love living in Missouri and tolerate our sometimes-harsh weather as part of the package. By taking a few precautions and knowing how to recognize the signs of dangerous heat, we’ll get through the summer just fine. After all, if we don’t like the weather, just wait. It will change.
It’s my honor to serve as your senator for the 16th District. If you have questions or need any assistance, please call my office at 573-751-5713 or log onto my webpage at https://www.senate.mo.gov/brown for more information.
