The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) wants to remind residents to stay cool during these hot weeks of summer. Temperatures are expected to be in the 80s and above through next week, and outdoor summer activities are in full swing. That means a lot of people will be at risk for sun and heat-related illness.
MDHHS reviews data on illness caused by over-exposure to heat and sun, and there have already been more than 600 emergency room visits since July 1st due to sunburn, sun poisoning, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and dehydration. This is an important time to remember that staying hydrated and taking breaks from the heat and sun are essential practices for preventing heat-related illness. In addition, residents are reminded to never leave children or pets alone in a car – even with the windows cracked. Temperatures inside a car can easily be double the temperature outside, and because a child’s body heats up three to five times faster than an adult’s, they are more susceptible to heatstroke.
For more information about how to protect yourself and your loved ones from heat-related illness, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website.
