Heat Stress is a health threat, even in Wisconsin.

GREEN BAY, WI – (WGBW & WISS) – Temperatures are getting higher as summer descends on Wisconsin. Heat stress is a genuine health concern for the elderly, the young, and even the most physically fit.

Claire Paprocki, Communication Specialist for Brown County Public Health said that Wisconsin is not considered a “hot climate location.” However, heat stress and heat-related illness can occur.

“Heat-related illnesses among babies and older adults are typically most severe,” said Paprocki. “But, we do see that ER visits among people agest 15 to 34 are most common.”

The Wisconsin Department of Human Services (DHS) urges people to watch for early signs of heat stress like dizziness, headaches, fatigue, and muscle cramps — whether at home, working outdoors, or participating in outdoor activities.

While extreme heat can put everyone at risk of heat illnesses, the heat health risks are greatest for the following populations:

• Older adults
• Infants and children
• People who are pregnant
• People who work in the heat
• People who exercise in the heat
• People without a home
• Persons with chronic conditions
  • Breathing difficulties
  • Heart conditions
  • Mental health conditions 
  • Diabetes 
  • Kidney Diseases
  • Obesity

What to do for heat stress

Mark Husen with Bellin Health Sports Medicine says the danger from heat can vary depending on wind, exercise level, and varying temperatures. 

“Based off the wind. Based off humidity, or based off the heat – time of day. It all plays a role,” says Husen. “The biggest thing is, yeah, your body starts – really what it does is it starts cooking.” 

Husen says “Heat Stress” encompasses all the illnesses or conditions that can be triggered by the heat. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are the most dangerous.

“Heat exhaustion is your body is getting really hot. Your skin is clammy. You’re sweating but your skin is different,” said Husen. “Then you get to the heat stroke, which means your body is virtually burning up.” 

Paprocki said extreme heat negatively affects health by worsening symptoms for conditions you already have.

“Take asthma for example,” said Paprocki. “If you have asthma you’re probably pretty familiar with symptoms, things that happen when you may or may not need your inhaler. Heat stress can exacerbate those symptoms. So, if you’re feeling out of the ordinary.  If you’re feeling ‘Oh, I am used to feeling weak or dizzy, but this is next level,’ that could be something that is caused by heat stress.”

According to Husen, if a person is having a heat stroke, they should be cooled immediately.

“If they really feel like this person is in a heat stroke, they should never been transported,” said Husen. “People will say, ‘We’ve got to get them to a hospital!’ Your best bet is to cool them whatever means you have possible.”

Husen says cooling tubs, pouring water over the body, cold compresses under armpits or on the back of the neck, and small drinks of water are the best ways to start the cooling process. 

Avoiding heat stress

Paprocki said being aware of the heat is the first step to avoiding heat stress and heat-related illnesses.

“Beware of hot cars. Never leave a child, pet, person with a disability, or elderly person in a parked car,” said Paprocki. “Avoid the hottest part of the day. So, if you do want to garden or be outside doing your favorite activities, think about cooler morning hours or evening hours. Wear light loose clothing. And be sure to take breaks.”

“ReadyWisconsin and DHS recommend following these tips to beat the heat and stay safe during heat waves:

• Remain inside air-conditioned buildings as much as possible during the hottest parts of the day. Call 2-1-1 to find an accessible cool place near you.
• If you don’t have air conditioning or a basement, take a cool shower, soak your feet in cold water, or place a cool, wet cloth on your forehead. Keep your windows covered to avoid direct sunlight.
• Drink plenty of fluids and avoid alcohol, caffeinated or high-sugar drinks. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink.
• Never leave a child or pet unattended inside a parked car. On an 80° F day, temperatures in a vehicle parked in direct sunlight can climb almost 20 degrees in just 10 minutes.
• Limit your pet’s time outdoors and make sure they have access to fresh drinking water.
• Seek medical attention right away if you develop heat stroke symptoms such as confusion, rapid breathing and heartbeat, body temperature above 104°F, or nausea and vomiting.
• Check in with loved ones and neighbors during heat waves, especially if they last a few days. Check for signs of heat illness and make sure they are cool and hydrated.

Check on your neighbors

People are advised to check in on their neighbors during days with extreme heat.

“They don’t even have to be elderly,” said Paprocki. “If you have neighbors or loved ones, make sure you are checking in on them on the hot days. Just to see if they are doing okay – If they need any help. They may be experiencing symptoms, and they don’t even realize it. So when you check on them that can prevent something terrible from happening.”

Gov. Tony Evers declared June 5 as Heat Awareness Day in Wisconsin. 

Learn more about heat safety information and forecast tools at https://www.weather.gov/safety/heat.