Monsoon Safety Awareness Week, Day 5: All about excessive heat

Excessive heat is often ongoing during the onset of monsoon. Some underestimate our dry heat as no cause for concern, but, unfortunately, heat is the top weather-related killer in the Grand Canyon State.

According to the Arizona Department of Health, approximately 40 people from the Grand Canyon State have died each year since 1992 from heat-related illnesses. In 2009, 110 people died from heat-related causes. So, heat is more than just a nuisance — it's potentially life-threatening.

Symptoms of heat-related conditions

• Heat sickness: Can begin as suburn and fatigue, then progress to heat cramps.
• Heat exhaustion: Signs include heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness or headache, nausea or vomiting and faintness. If untreated, then could progress to heat stroke, which is a medical emergency.
• Heat stroke: Oral temperature above 39.4 degrees Celsius; other signs include rapid, strong pulse; red, hot and dry or sweaty skin; throbbing headache or dizziness; nausea; confusion and/or unconsciousness.

Tips to beat the heat

• Check the forecast on the National Weather Service, Tucson office's website and, in particular, check for heat advisories.
• If extreme heat is in the forecast, then avoid being outside, if possible.
• Avoid strenuous outdoor activities — especially during the hottest times of the day (from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.).
• Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Don't wait until thirst sets in to drink fluids.
• Stay away from sugary, caffeinated and alcoholic beverages, which can increase stress on the bdy and accelerate dehydration.
• Don't forget to check on pets, children and the elderly in times of extreme temperatures since all are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses.
• Never leave children or pets inside a parked vehicle.
• If someone near you is experiencing symptoms of heat stroke, then call 911 immediately. Move them to a cooler location, if possible.