News Flash Home
The original item was published from 6/30/2012 5:16:00 PM to 7/30/2012 12:05:01 AM.

News Flash

Danville, VA Local Government News and Announcements

Posted on: June 29, 2012

[ARCHIVED] Extreme heat and humidity demands attention for safety and health

A heat advisory continues in effect today for the Danville area, and it will once again be in effect on Sunday from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.

With the arrival of the extreme heat and humidity, and the forecast for it to remain in place through Independence Day, the Danville Fire Department urges citizens to take extra precautions to stay safe and healthy.

Fire Marshal Shelby Irving said one of the most important steps is to keep watch on friends and neighbors who may not have air conditioning. Citizens should call or visit them at least twice a day, and if possible, invite them to their home.

Air-conditioning is the number one protective factor against heat-related illness and death. During conditions of extreme heat and humidity, spend time in locations with air-conditioning such as shopping malls, public libraries, senior centers and other public buildings.

Older adults and young children are particularly susceptible to extreme heat. They experience an elevated response to the extreme heat, and therefore they can develop heat-related illness much quicker than other segments of the population.

In addition, older adults and young children are not always able to sense and respond to the early signs of heat stress. Young children may not have the ability to communicate their body signals of thirst, for example.

Irving said Danville is more vulnerable for heat-related illnesses due to the greater number of citizens in the community who are above the age of 65 (22 percent) and under the age of 14 (18 percent).

The most common forms of heat-related illness are heat stroke, heat exhaustion and cramping. These conditions may occur with individuals who otherwise may be healthy. Heat stroke is an emergency in which the body loses its ability to cool itself. Signs of heat stroke include hot, red skin that may be dry or moist, changes in consciousness, vomiting and high body temperatures.

To respond to heat stroke, CALL 911 or go to the closest emergency room.

Heat exhaustion typically involves the loss of body fluids through heavy sweating during strenuous exercise or physical labor in high heat and humidity. Signs of heat exhaustion include cool, moist, pale or flushed skin; heavy sweating; headache; nausea; dizziness; weakness; and exhaustion.

Heat cramps are muscular pains and spasms that usually occur in the legs or abdomen caused by exposure to high heat and humidity and loss of fluids and electrolytes. Heat cramps often are an early sign that the body is having trouble with the heat.

To protect your health when temperatures are extremely high, remember to keep cool and stay hydrated. Drink plenty of cool fluids -- alcohol and drinks with large amounts of sugar can actually cause you to lose more body fluid.

Facebook Twitter Email

Other News in Danville, VA Local Government News and Announcements

Holiday light show shines for 10th year

Posted on: December 8, 2023
IDDU Graduation

Police Department honors IDDU graduates

Posted on: December 5, 2023
2023 Fill the Truck Event

Toy drive begins Saturday

Posted on: November 28, 2023

Reserve A Ride service schedule to change

Posted on: November 27, 2023
Project Imagine - group photo 11.20.23 - IMG_0412

Project Imagine honors eight graduates

Posted on: November 21, 2023

Health district warns of rabies concerns

Posted on: November 20, 2023

Casino generates $16.84 million in October

Posted on: November 20, 2023

Holiday schedule for offices, services

Posted on: November 15, 2023

Fire marshal issues burn ban for city

Posted on: November 7, 2023

Robert David to receive national award

Posted on: November 2, 2023
Daylight Saving Time - fall back 2023

Change your clocks, check your batteries

Posted on: November 2, 2023

Otterbots announce new manager for 2024

Posted on: October 26, 2023