Welcome to North Shore Health Department North Shore Health Department Highlights 07/16/19 Did you know? The forecast for our area indicates heat index values rising above 95 to 100 this week, creating potentially dangerous conditions, especially for those most susceptible to heat-related illness; such as infants, the elderly and individuals with chronic heart and lung conditions and those on certain medications (those for blood pressure, heart disease and mental health). People who work outdoors or in hot settings should also be aware of the symptoms of heat-related illness and take precautions. The North Shore Health Department (NSHD) reminds residents to take steps to stay cool and safe during this heat wave. · Symptoms of heat-related illness: Muscle cramping may be the first symptom. Headaches nausea, strong or rapid pulse, dizziness and even death. Infants, children, and individuals 65 or older are at a higher risk of developing heat related illness because they are less likely to notice and less able to moderate the change in their body’s temperature. · Be aware of warning signs of dehydration for babies: dark urine or a child may have less urine in their diaper a dry or sticky mouth, no tears when crying, not appear active or playful, no appetite. Tips to reduce heat-related illness : Stay cool – wear light clothing, reduce sun exposure, and stay in air-conditioned buildings as much as possible. Do not rely on fans as a primary cooling device. If your home does not have air conditioning, consider public places such as shopping malls, movie theaters, or libraries. During extreme heat events, local cooling centers may open. Take cool baths or showers and use wet towels on your skin to help you cool down. Stay hydrated – increase water intake and never wait until you are thirsty to drink fluids. Limit dehydrating beverages – avoid alcohol and caffeinated beverages and those containing large quantities of sugar. Check on at-risk individuals (elderly twice a day). Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing. Never leave children, disabled persons, or pets in a parked car – even briefly. For more information on the symptoms of heat-related illness, visit: https://www.cdc.gov/extremeheat/warning.html or https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/climate/heat.htm In conditions of high or extreme heat, the NSHD encourages residents to seek out designated cool sites. A list of cooling sites in Milwaukee, as well as heat safety tips, can be found at: https://city.milwaukee.gov/health/HotWeatherSafety#.XSzJG-hKjZs