Heat Wave Hits RI: How to Keep Your Cool

Heat Wave Hits RI: How to Keep Your Cool

If you haven't noticed, it's hot out there.

Rhode Island and much of the Northeast are in the midst of a heatwave and temperatures in the 90s, even close to 100, are in the forecast all week. Keeping your cool is important, especially for those who may suffer heat-related illnesses more easily than hearty folks who tolerate this blazing heat a bit better. Checking in on the elderly, making sure infants are cool and keeping those who suffer from chronic illnesses out of the hot, muggy air is extremely important.

According to the CDC, people suffer heat-related illness when their bodies are unable to compensate and properly cool themselves. The body normally cools itself by sweating. But under some conditions, sweating just isn't enough. In such cases, a person's body temperature rises rapidly. 

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Very high body temperatures may damage the brain or other vital organs. During a heat wave like the one that's happening now, you will need to increase your fluid intake, regardless of your activity level. Don't wait until you're thirsty to drink. During heavy exercise in a hot environment, drink two to four glasses (16-32 ounces) of cool fluids each hour. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and tea which may lead to dehydration. Sports drinks or plain old water are best.

What are some of the signs of heatstroke? 

Signs of heatstroke include risingbody temperature, rapid pulse, difficulty breathing, strange behavior, hallucinations, confusion,agitation,and disorientation. Call 911 immediately if you suspect someone has heatstroke. While you wait for emergency services, monitor body temperature with a thermometer and apply tepid water to the skin to keep the body cool. 

If you know of elderly or those who should not be in this dangerous heat this week, try to get them to a cooling center or to a home with air conditioning. The public library is a also great place to cool off for people of all ages. Find a library near you on the Ocean State Libraries Web site.

Several communities in Rhode Island are now starting to open cooling centers that will stay open most of Tuesday and Wednesday. In Warwick, there are three locations open as public cooling centers: Buttonwoods Community Center, Pilgrim Senior Center and the Warburton Ice Rink. The McDermott Pool is also open to the public for a refreshing dip. 

The Town of Charlestown has opened up the Town Council Chambers (4540 South County Trail) and the police station community room (Old Post Road) if you need a break from the heat. Both are open until 4:30p.m.on Tuesday and Wednesday.

This may not be the last of the heat so stay in-the-know when it comes to the heat. The RI Red Cross Website has a Heatwave Safety Checklist that you canprint out and keep handy this summer.