UPDATED: Farmington Area Under a Heat Advisory

With temperatures expected to climb into the 90s today and tomorrow, Farmington and Farmington Hills are under a heat advisory until midnight Wednesday.

Heat index values will range from 95-100 today and 93-98 Wednesday. Overnight low temperatures will only drop to the low 70s, providing little relief from the daytime heat, the National Weather Service reported this morning.

Strenuous outdoor activity could lead to heat injuries such as heat stroke, heat exhaustion or heat cramps.

People prone to heat stress – such as the very young, the elderly and those with underlying health conditions – could suffer, especially where no shade or air conditioning is available.

What to do? Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room and stay out of the sun. Children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances. And it's a good idea to check on relatives and neighbors periodically.

The Oakland County Health Division issued a statement this afternoon warning residents to be proactive when it comes to protecting yourself from heat-related illnesses.

“Among the most important precautions you can take is to keep yourself hydrated by drinking plenty of water even if you are not thirsty,” Kathy Forzley, manager/health officer of Oakland County Health Division, said. “Additionally, take plenty of breaks if you’re working or playing outdoors.” 

Forzley suggested following these additional prevention tips:

• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight and light-colored clothing.
• Limit vigorous activity during hot, humid weather. Stay indoors and exercise in air conditioned areas such as malls.
• Drink more water than you need to satisfy your thirst. Limit drinks that can cause dehydration such as soda and coffee.
• Avoid alcohol.
• Protect yourself from the sun. Wear sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen with a SPF of 15 or higher.
• Seek relief in shaded areas.
• Keep cool! Use an air conditioner or go to a cool place such as a basement, neighbor’s house, community center, senior citizen center, library, shopping mall, movie theater, or cooling center. Even an hour or two will cool you down.
• Monitor high-risk people for signs of heat related illness. Visit older neighbors and family members at least twice a day to make sure they are safe.  Watch for signs of heat stroke or heat exhaustion.
• If you exercise in the heat, try to schedule vigorous exercise during the cooler morning or evening hours.
• Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
• NEVER leave any person or pet in a closed, parked vehicle.

Heat stroke is the most severe form of heat illness. It can damage the brain and other organs, and even cause death.  During heat stroke, the body loses the ability to regulate temperature in extreme heat, high humidity or during vigorous activity. Symptoms vary, but usually include red, flushed skin, a rapid strong pulse, throbbing headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion and unconsciousness.

Heat stroke is a life-threatening situation, and if someone appears to be suffering from it, you should call 9-1-1. Move the person to a shaded or air-conditioned area. Spray or sponge them with cold water or immerse them in a tub of cold water. If it is not too humid, wrap the victim in a wet sheet and vigorously fan him or her.

Attempt to get the body temperature lowered to 101 to 102 degrees. Keep the person lying down and continue to cool the body. Watch for breathing problems. If the victim refuses water, vomits or if there are changes in consciousness, do not give them anything to eat or drink.

Heat exhaustion, while not as serious as heat stroke, is the result of extended exposure to heat and dehydration. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include dizziness, sweating, dry mouth, headache, weakness, fatigue, and clammy skin. Other signs include muscle cramps and a weak, rapid pulse.

For more information, contact Oakland County Health Division’s Nurse on Call at 248-858-1406 or Toll Free at 800-848-5533.