Extreme Heat Preparedness

Heat kills by pushing the human body beyond its limits. In extreme heat and high humidity, evaporation is slowed and the body must work extra hard to maintain a normal temperature.

Most heat disorders occur because the victim has been overexposed to heat or has over-exercised for his or her age and physical condition. Older adults, young children, and those who are sick or overweight are more likely to succumb to extreme heat.

Conditions that can induce heat-related illnesses include stagnant atmospheric conditions and poor air quality. Consequently, people living in urban areas may be at greater risk from the effects of a prolonged heat wave than those living in rural areas. Also, asphalt and concrete store heat longer and gradually release heat at night, which can produce higher nighttime temperatures known as the “urban heat island effect.”

Emergency Information

1. Heat kills by pushing the human body beyond its limits. Under normal conditions, the body’s internal thermostat produces perspiration that evaporates and cools the body. However, in extreme heat and high humidity, evaporation is slowed and the body must work extra hard to maintain a normal temperature.
2. Most heat disorders occur because the victim has been overexposed to heat or has overexercised for his or her age and physical condition. Other conditions that can induce heat-related illnesses include stagnant atmospheric conditions and poor air quality.
3. A prolonged drought can have a serious economic impact on a community. Increased demand for water and electricity may result in shortages of resources. Moreover, food shortages may occur if agricultural production is damaged or destroyed by a loss of crops or livestock.

Danger Zones

All areas in the United States are at risk of drought at any time of the year. Drought gripped much of the West and Midwest from 1987 to 1991. The Missouri River Basin and California have experienced extended periods of drought as well.

Extreme Heat:  Know the Terms.

Before Extreme Heat

During a Heat Emergency

All information above is from the FEMA website.

For more information and resources on Extreme Heat Preparedness, please visit the web sites below.

US Department of Homeland Security – FEMA
http://www.fema.gov/

US National Weather Service – NOAA
http://www.weather.gov/

NOAA – Heat Index
http://www.nws.noaa.gov/om/heat/index.shtml

American Red Cross
http://www.redcross.org/

Ready Gov
http://www.ready.gov/

CDC – Center For Disease Control and Prevention
http://www.cdc.gov/