Published: July 22, 2008 11:42 pm         

Forecast calls for more 100-degree temperatures

Triple-digit temperatures this week may force some Enid residents to take measures to beat the summer heat.

National Weather Service has forecast near 100-degree or plus temperatures for the Enid area and most of the state throughout the rest of the week, with the heat index reaching even higher.

As well as discomfort, high temperatures can cause health problems such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

Garfield County Health Department Administrative Director Stephen Rempe said the young and elderly are more at-risk of heat-related problems or illness.

“The elderly, infants and young children are at higher risk of heat-related illnesses,” Rempe said. “They may not be able to adjust to increases in air temperatures, or may take medications that decrease their ability to deal with heat.

“Heat precautions are also proposed for persons with heart, lung or kidney problems and persons whose occupations require them to work outdoors.”

Robin Unruh, executive director of Cimarron Valley Chapter of American Red Cross, said knowing the symptoms and treatments for heat-related problems is one of the best ways to beat the heat.

According to the Red Cross, heat cramps, heat exhaustion or heat stroke can be caused by over-exertion in high temperatures.

Heat cramps are muscular pains and spasms due to heavy exertion. Although heat cramps are the least severe, they are an early signal the body is having trouble with the heat.

Heat cramps should be treated by getting the person to a cooler place and placing them in a comfortable position. Lightly stretch the affected muscle and replenish fluids, giving half glass of cool water every 15 minutes. Do not give liquids with alcohol or caffeine in them, as they can worsen conditions.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include cool, moist, pale or flushed skin; heavy sweating; headache; nausea or vomiting; dizziness; and exhaustion. Body temperature will be near normal.

To treat heat exhaustion, get the person out of the heat and into a cooler place and remove or loosen tight clothing and apply cool, wet cloths.

If the person is conscious, give cool water to drink, making sure the person drinks slowly. Give a half glass of cool water every 15 minutes and do not give liquids that contain alcohol or caffeine. Let the person rest in a comfortable position and watch carefully for changes in his or her condition.

Heat stroke symptoms include hot, red skin; changes in consciousness; rapid, weak pulse; and rapid, shallow breathing. Body temperature can be very high — as high as 105.

If the person was sweating from heavy work or exercise, his or her skin may be wet. Otherwise it will feel dry.

Visiting “cooling centers,” or public places with air conditioning, such as libraries, stores, malls or community centers, is another way to beat the heat.

This week the Salvation Army, at 516 N. Indepen-dence, has opened its dining room as a cooling station for the public from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. until Friday.

For information on heat-related problems, go to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Web site at http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disas ters/extremeheat/index.asp.