Heat: Top & silent killer: 9 tips on how to stay safe from heat

Heat: Top & silent killer
9 tips to stay safe from the heat

Heat advisories are in effect for South Florida, putting over 6 million people at risk on July 7th. Heat indices could be as high as 112F!

According to a study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 735 people die each year due to heat-related illness, making it the leading cause of weather-related deaths in the U.S. Heat-related deaths were reported most frequently among males and among adults aged 65 years or more. Whether you're in a commonly hot place like the South, or expecting a heat wave in your area, here are 9 useful tips on how to take care of yourself and your loved ones from extreme temperatures.

9 Tips to stay safe from the heat:

Stay properly hydrated

Rest and cool down in the shade during breaks

Avoid working outside during the hottest part of the day

Know symptoms, prevention, and emergency response to prevent heat-related illness and death.

Check the weather forecast ahead of time to be better prepared

Never leave a child unattended in a vehicle, even with the windows down and even for just a minute.

Teach children not to play in, on, or around cars. They could accidentally trap themselves in a hot vehicle.

Always lock car doors and trunks -- even at home -- and keep keys out of children's reach.

Always make sure children have left the car when you reach your destination. Don't leave sleeping infants in the car, ever.

Protecting loved ones

Texas, Florida, and California report the most child deaths due to being left inside hot cars. Children’s bodies warm faster than adults, making them especially vulnerable to heat exposure. Other sensitive groups include people with disabilities, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions which make them more susceptible to the heat.

Remember, you can track heatwaves right on the app using the interactive TemperatureRadar.

Weather & Radar USA editorial team

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