Keeping yourself safe ahead of the year’s hottest temperatures

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – This week, we have experienced some very hot temperatures, but this weekend, we could experience some of the hottest temperatures all year.

Temperatures are expected to rise into the high 90s, with heat index temperatures expected to reach into the triple digits. Heat like that can pose a very dangerous and even deadly threat.

Participating in activities outside with preparation can have catastrophic results. Health officials say you need to hydrate regularly, apply sunscreen often and stay indoors or a cool place if you can. If not, you could find yourself at risk of heat exhaustion or stroke, which can happen to anyone no matter their age or fitness.

“So I always tell people you know your body better than anyone,” said Casey McCoy, a clinical educator with Med Center Health.

McCoy said, “Anybody can have this. So don’t think that you are to fit to be outside. So pay attention to your body. If you start to feel fatigued, if you’re starting to feel thirsty or starting to feel lightheaded, this is the time to start taking shelter in a cool area. This is a time to start drinking water and start cooling yourself down.”

If you experience symptoms such as dizziness, sweating and irritability, you should seek cooler temperatures and hydrate immediately. If you come across someone who has become unconscious, has stopped sweating, or is have seizures you should immediately call 911 as these are common signs of heat stroke and could be fatal.