CLEARFIELD – The Clearfield County Area Agency on Aging reminds older adults that heat stroke is a dangerous condition that can occur when the body can’t regulate its temperature. With the temperatures expected to soar into the mid- to upper-90s at the end of this week, older adults need to take precautionary efforts to minimize the dangers from excessive heat and take measures to stay cool.
Symptoms of heat stroke include hot, dry red skin, throbbing headache, nausea, or dizziness. People with heart or circulatory problems are at greater risk of heat stroke.Â
Individuals should take the following precautionary measures:
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- Wear light weight and loose fitting clothing.
- Stay in an air-conditioned setting.
- Minimize time spent outdoors and stay out of the sun whenever possible.
- Check on relatives and neighbors who may be susceptible to heat related conditions.
- Maintain an awareness of the indicators of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. If any of these signs and symptoms becomes apparent, move to a cool and shaded area and seek the necessary medical treatment.
- Ensure pets have access to shaded and well-ventilated areas with sufficient amounts of water.
In addition, avoid heat stroke by staying inside or in shady areas or go to a Center for Active Living and spend the day there. Each of the Centers is air conditioned. You can find a
listing of the Centers and their hours of operation at www.ccaaa.net. Click on Community Life then Centers for Active Living. For more information, call the CCAAA at 765-2696 or 1-800-225-8571.Â
Programs and services of the Clearfield County Area Agency on Aging, Inc. are funded in part by the Pennsylvania Department of Aging, the Clearfield County Area Agency on Aging, Inc., Mature Resources Foundation, and local and client contributions.
