Heat Illnesses

Keeping Warm in a New Year

Well the New Year has arrived in full force and winter has graced us with a lot of rain and very cold days. We retreat indoors in an attempt to heat our homes and create a safe refuge from the bitter cold.

However, the winter also is a busy time for Tracy's firefighters. Problems with heating sources such as; fireplaces, wood stoves, portable heater and central heating systems ensure that we are busy out in the cold. Improper use of heating systems are especially common and can be fatal or cause needless property damage.

Each year fire claims the lives of 4,000 Americans, injures tens of thousands, and causes billions of dollars worth of damage. However, by following some of the precautionary steps and common sense we can enjoy a toasty home and greatly reduce the chance of becoming a fire casualty.

Wood Stoves

Wood stoves cause over 9,000 residential fires every year. It is always important to follow prescribed manufacturer instructions and maintenance schedules. It is also important to inspect your stove for cracks, damage and ensure proper operation. Use only manufacturer recommended fuels and not green wood, artificial logs, or trash. Lastly, never store items on the wood stove and always allow good clearance.

Electric Space Heaters

While space heaters can heat a local area they can pose risks. First, start by purchasing a space heater with the Underwriter's Laboratory (UL) safety listing. Key items to check when buying a space heater is to make sure it has a thermostat control mechanism and has an automatic switch off if the heater falls over. Do not use your space heater as a dryer for things such as socks or other clothing items and make sure you keep combustibles at least three feet away from the space heater. Lastly, conduct inspections of the power cord and always unplug your electric space heater when not in use.

Fireplaces

When not properly installed or maintained fireplaces can pose great hazard. Frequently used fireplaces build up creosote in their chimney flues and need to be cleaned at least once a year. They may need more cleanings depending on use. A professional and licensed chimney sweep can clean and inspect your fireplace and ensure its operational readiness and give further advice on cleaning schedules.

A common mistake is when people forget to open the damper before starting a fire, or when they use the fireplace in ways it was not intended. Burning seasoned wood or a Duraflame style log is appropriate. Burning trash, using flammable liquids to start the fire or overloading the firebox with fuels is not appropriate.

Lastly, always be prepared by having items such as an extinguisher on hand for the unexpected. When cleaning ashes, always make sure they are cold before removals as the ash can remain hot for quite some time. Store cooled ashes in a tightly sealed metal container outside the home.

There are some general rules regarding heating sources that apply for all. Always maintain at least a 3-foot clearance from heating sources. Follow manufacturer directions and do not deviate by using unintended products. Finally, having a working smoke alarm, extinguishers and a home escape plan are good ideas regardless of whether it's the cold of winter or the heat of summer.

Summer

While some people lament the hot days I always love blazing weather that turn into warm evenings. If it hits triple digit numbers I'm a happy camper. Of course, not everyone feels the same about the hot days of summer.

While some people prefer to hide in their air-conditioned houses and live the life of a polar bear, most of us still go outside and continue many different activities. Whether you are fighting a 100-acre grass fire, playing baseball or just gardening in the yard you need to keep some things in mind on these hot summer days.

The heat and sun can cause a number of problems even for the most healthy of individuals. Children, the elderly and those with respiratory illnesses or in poor health are especially susceptible to complications from the heat.

Sunburn and dehydration are probably the most common heat problems encountered when out in the heat and sun. The best ways to prevent a sun stress emergency are:

• Drink before you're thirsty and drink often.
• Wear and SPF sunscreen.
• Wear a hat or cap, keep the neck covered and wear loose fitting clothing.
• If you can, work in the cool hours of the day or evening or limit the time of exposure during the hottest part of the day.

A word about fluid replacement and hydration. Not all fluids are created equal. The good news is you need not look any farther and cool water. Water is the best replacement fluid and most individuals will not need anything more. The key is to begin replacement hydration before you begin to feel thirsty. For some individuals, especially athletes, alternating between water and a sports replacement drink may be appropriate. While sodas, juices and alcohol may seem refreshing; they do not make good fluid replacement drinks and can actually further complicate proper hydration.

While most of us will only suffer from the occasional sunburn or dehydration there are more serious heat illnesses. There are three categories of heat illnesses; they include, Heat Cramps, Heat Exhaustion and Heat stroke.

Heat cramps are muscular pains and spasms that occur when the body loses electrolytes during profuse sweating or when inadequate electrolytes are taken into the body. They usually begin in the arms, legs or abdomen, and often precede heat exhaustion. Treatments for heat cramps are to rest in the shade, a cool environment like an air-conditioned area, spraying cool mists over the person with water and massage the cramp.

Heat exhaustion is a medical emergency. When a person is suffering from heat exhaustion, they will perspire profusely and most likely will be pale. Although partly due to exhaustion, heat exhaustion is also a result of excessive heat and more severely exhausted patients may need IV fluids, especially if vomiting keeps them from drinking enough.

Heat stroke is the worst heat-related injury. The brain has lost its ability to regulate body temperature. Symptoms include; Fever (body temperature above 104° F), irrational behavior, extreme confusion, dry, hot, and red skin, rapid shallow breathing, rapid weak pulse, seizures and unconsciousness. This is a medical emergency, call 911.

While the heat can cause illnesses, the good news is that heat related illnesses are preventable. The important thing is to stay well-hydrated, to make sure that your body can get rid of extra heat, and to be sensible about exertion in hot, humid weather.

So enjoy those hot days and don't forget to bring the hat and water to the Bean Festival this August.