Wicomico Adds Additional Cooling Center

Health Officials Encourage Residents to Recognize Dangers of Heat Related Illnesses
(Salisbury, MD) During these extreme heat conditions, the Wicomico County Health Department is encouraging residents to be careful, stay cool, and keep hydrated. While temperatures and heat indices rise to record breaking levels, so does the risk for heat related illness. Health Officials are asking residents to remain indoors in the air conditioning, during the extreme heat.

The MAC Senior Center, Snow Hill Road, Salisbury will be open on Saturday, July 7 from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm for people 50yrs old and older needing relief from the heat. Bring snacks and any medications with you. Shore Transit is providing transportation to and from the center. Call them at 443-260-2300.

Infants, young children, young athletes, obese persons, those older than 65 years of age, and those persons with diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease or a mental illness are at highest risk for heat related illness. Family, friends, and neighbors who are at high risk will need extra help and residents should consider how they can help someone they know get to an air-conditioned place, if needed.

Heat rashes and muscle cramping are usually the first signs of heat related illness, and may lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Here is how you recognize heat exhaustion and heat stroke and what to do:

Signs and Symptoms:
Heat Exhaustion Heat Stroke (medical emergency-call 911)
*Heavy sweating
*High body temperature (above 103 degrees)
*Weakness
*Hot, red, dry or moist skin
*Dizziness or Fainting
*Rapid and strong pulse
*Nausea or vomiting
*Possible unconsciousness
*Shortness of breath or trouble breathing
*Confusion or disorientation

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What to Do:
Heat Exhaustion: Move individual to a cooler location, lie them down and loosen clothing, offer small amounts of water to sip. If vomiting occurs, seek medical attention immediately.
Heat Stroke: Call 911 immediately – this is a medical emergency. Move the person to a cooler environment. Reduce the person’s body temperature with cool cloths or even a bath. Do NOT give fluids.

“Heat related illnesses are a serious health threat and can be life threatening,” says Lori Brewster, Wicomico County Health Officer. “I urge residents to drink lots of water, stay cool, and check on their neighbors. If air conditioning is not available, residents should consider visiting the local mall or cooling center. It is important during times like these to look after one another, and help ensure each other’s safety.”

For local and updated cooling center information, facts on heat related illness, or additional tips on how to stay cool, visit the Wicomico County Health Department's website at www.wicomicohealth.org.