JACKSON, Tenn. – The summer heat is here and West Tennessee residents are doing their best to keep cool.
Chief Meteorologist Joel Barnes predicted Monday that the heat index could be between 40 and 43 degrees for most of the afternoon. On Tuesday, that prediction turned out to be accurate.
According to Epic Insider, hundreds of people die from high temperatures every year.
They also state that heat-related deaths and illnesses are preventable, yet more than 600 people die from extreme heat each year.
Ginger Rowsey, spokeswoman for the Jackson Madison County Health Department, said it is important for residents to keep as cool as possible.
“When we have extreme heat like we have now, it can be dangerous for anyone, but especially for those at risk, so older adults, very young children and those who have to work outside. Whether it’s construction workers or athletes preparing for training and games. Especially those at-risk groups. We want to check on them, make sure they’re staying hydrated throughout the day and avoiding those extremely high temperatures,” Rowsey said.
Rowsey explained to us several methods we can use in the scorching heat.
“You can use any kind of cold compress – if you want to cool down, you can wear a wet towel around your neck. I’ve seen people do that. Scarves are very popular. Anything like that can help cool your body temperature down a little bit. A big step is to avoid strenuous physical activity during a really hot time of day,” Rowsey said.
She told us that muscle cramps are a sign of heat stress.
“If you’re getting these cramps, it could be a sign that you’re getting a heat-related illness. You’re suffering from heat stress. So if you’re getting these muscle cramps, you need to stop what you’re doing, go to a cool place, drink some water and rest until these cramps and spasms subside,” Rowsey said.
Rowsey also said that drinking water is not just for hot weather conditions.
“Keep drinking that water even after you get home. A lot of people come to a sporting event or to work and they’re already dehydrated in the morning, so drink in the evening. Drink that water so you stay hydrated and don’t start the day dehydrated,” Rowsey said.
Another tip: Plan your outdoor activities carefully and take a cool shower or bath to cool down.
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