MDHHS offers tips to stay healthy during heat waves

LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is urging residents to take steps to protect themselves from risks related to hot weather as a combination of high temperatures and humidity are expected to make it feel like nearly 100 degrees this weekend and into next week across much of the state.

MDHHS routinely reviews emergency department (ED) data for heat-related illness. As daily temperatures rise above 80 degrees, ED visits for heat-related illness increase. This is often more likely early in the summer season as people are not yet used to high temperatures and are not taking the necessary precautions.

“Nothing beats a Pure Michigan summer, and as we begin to enjoy it, let’s take action to stay safe when temperatures get too hot like they will over the next few days,” said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. “I encourage everyone to keep a close eye on older relatives and neighbors, children, and pets especially as heat and humidity reach high levels. I’m also grateful to the local first responders, our MSP troopers, and Col. Grady who will be available to assist you. Check out the resources available to you in your community to stay cool and ask for help if you need it. Together, we will stay prepared and stay safe all summer long.”

“With parts of our state experiencing very high temperatures over the next week, it is important for Michiganders to take steps to stay cool, safe, and healthy,” said Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. “Limit time in the heat if you can. Stay hydrated. Check on those in your family or community who may need help. Those without access to air conditioning can text or call Michigan 211 or contact their local health department to find nearby cooling centers. Michiganders are strong, and we’ll get through this.”

When it is very hot, there is an increased risk of heat-related illness because the body cannot cool itself enough. The most severe heat-related illnesses are heat exhaustion and heat stroke. If not treated, heat exhaustion can worsen and cause heat stroke or death.

“Michigan residents can take steps to protect themselves from heat exhaustion and heat stroke,” said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive. “Young children, older adults and those who have medical conditions are at increased risk for heat-related illness, so be sure to check frequently on them and others in your community who may need additional assistance. Limit time in heat, stay hydrated, avoid direct sunlight and find somewhere with air conditioning or take cool showers.”

To prevent complications from the heat, residents are encouraged to:

•        Drink more fluids and avoid liquids with large amounts of sugar or alcohol.
•        Limit outdoor activities to when it is coolest in the morning and evening.
•        Spend time indoors in air conditioning.
•        Wear lightweight, light-colored and loose-fitting clothing.
•        Wear sunscreen, as sunburn affects a body’s ability to cool down.
•        Check on elderly neighbors and relatives to determine if they need assistance.

In addition to reaching out to Michigan 211 to locate cooling centers, residents can also spend some time at an air-conditioned store, shopping mall or other public building – even a few hours spent in air conditioning can help.

In addition to staying hydrated and out of the sun, residents are reminded to never leave children or pets alone in a car even with windows cracked. Temperatures inside a car can easily be double the temperature outside. Because a child’s body heats up three to five times faster than an adult, they are more susceptible to heatstroke.

Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are both forms of heat-related illness. Signs of heat-related illness vary but may include:

•        Heavy sweating
•        Muscle cramps
•        Weakness
•        Dizziness
•        Headache
•        Nausea
•        Vomiting
•        Fainting
•        Extremely high body temperature (above 103°F)
•        Tiredness

Heatstroke occurs when the body is unable to regulate its temperature and can result in death if not treated promptly. Humidity can make temperatures feel even hotter and further stress the body's ability to self-regulate. If you suspect someone has heatstroke, call 911 for immediate medical help and try to cool the person down.

For more information about how to protect yourself and your loved ones from heat-related illness, see the MDHHS Heat Awareness and Safety Fact Sheet, which is also available in Spanish.

In addition to the MDHHS health and safety recommendations, the Michigan State Police has issued important safety reminders for coping with excessive heat.