HOT WEATHER will be hitting the NY/NJ/Baltimore areas over the next few days, and YWN suggests reading the following information – in addition to setting your air conditioners:

The National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Watch for the Baltimore & Washington Metro areas for Shabbos – Monday. Temperatures will be near 100 degrees, with the heat index reaching 110 degrees.

The weather predicted for the Tri-State Area is the following:
Shabbos; High: 94
Sunday; High: 93 Hazy, hot and humid.
Monday; High: 95
Tuesday; High: 90

Residents are urged to take precautions, such as ensuring that you drink plenty of water and checking on elderly neighbors. If you feel any of the symptoms below, immediately go into a cool location and drink some cool, non-alcoholic liquid, and contact your local Hatzolah.

With the summer approaching, and hot-weather on the way, YWN suggests taking a moment to read the following tips which can save a life:

Do you know the symptoms of heat-related illness? Do you know the difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke? Do you know what to do if a friend, neighbor or loved one develops a heat-related illness?

Recognize the symptoms of heat-related illnesses:

Heat Exhaustion

*Heavy sweating
*Weakness
*Headache
*Weak pulse
*Dizziness
*Exhaustion
*Fainting
*Nausea or vomiting
*Cold, clammy skin
*Body temperature will seem normal

Heat exhaustion should be treated with rest in a cool area, drinking water or electroyte solutions, elevating the feet 12 inches, and further medical treatment in severe cases. If not treated, the victim’s condition may escalate to heat stroke. If the victim does not respond to basic treatment, seek medical attention. Heat exhaustion usually occurs when the heat index is between 90 and 105 degrees.

Heat Stroke

Victim should receive immediate medical attention!

*Flushed, hot, dry skin
*Weak or rapid pulse
*Shallow breathing
*Lack of sweating
*Throbbing headache
*Dizziness
*Nausea
*Confusion
*Unconsciousness.
*Body temperature will be elevated

Heat stroke is the most serious heat-related illness and people exhibiting its symptoms should seek emergency medical attention. Heat stroke usually occurs when the heat index is 130 degrees or higher, but can occur when the heat index surpasses 105 degrees.

(Eli Gefen – YWN Queens Ops. Desk / YW-MD03)