Governor Gregoire Encourages Washingtonians to Prepare for High Heat

For Immediate Release: July 10, 2007

OLYMPIA - Governor Chris Gregoire today joined with the Washington Department of Health and the American Red Cross to encourage all Washingtonians to take necessary steps to prepare for excessive heat and to help their neighbors, family and friends who may be more vulnerable to extreme temperatures.

�Washington is a beautiful state any time of year and with that beauty comes swings in temperature,� said Governor Gregoire. �I hope all Washingtonians will be careful when they are outside and will check on their neighbors to ensure their safety as the temperature climbs even higher.�

The Red Cross suggests several precautions to avoid heat-related injuries and illness:

  • Dress for the heat. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing (light colors reflect away some of the sun's energy) and use a hat or an umbrella.
  • Carry water or juice with you and drink frequently, even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which dehydrate the body. Make sure to check on youth and elderly to make sure they have enough fluids.
  • Eat small meals and eat more often. Avoid foods that are high in protein, which increases metabolic heat.
  • Avoid using salt tablets unless directed by a physician.
  • Avoid strenuous activity. If you must do something physically demanding, do it during the coolest part of the day, which is usually between 4:00 and 7:00 a.m.
  • Stay indoors as much as possible.
  • Take regular breaks when engaging in physical activity on warm days. Take time out to find a cool place.
  • Watch for signs of heat stroke: Heat stroke is life-threatening. The person's temperature control system, which produces sweating to cool the body, stops working.
  • The body temperature can rise so high that brain damage and death may result if the body is not cooled quickly.


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