Capital District Times

With the onset of a predicted heat wave tomorrow, Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy is urging residents to remain indoors in cool conditions as much as possible, stay hydrated, and check on elderly friends and neighbors.

“When the mercury starts to climb this high, it doesn’t take long to get overheated or dehydrated,” said County Executive McCoy. “We all need to know the signs and symptoms of heat stroke and exhaustion to avoid serious injury or death.”

Heat exhaustion can develop after several days of exposure to high temperatures without adequate fluid intake. Those most at risk include elderly individuals and those with high blood pressure. Symptoms encompass heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, and fainting. The skin may feel cool and moist; pulse rate will be fast yet weak; breathing will be rapid but shallow. Untreated heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke.

Heat stroke is the most severe heat-related illness and occurs when the body cannot regulate its temperature. This condition can be fatal if not addressed promptly. Symptoms include an extremely high body temperature (above 103°F), red-hot dry skin (absence of sweating), rapid strong pulse, throbbing headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion, and unconsciousness.

Guidance from the New York State Department of Health includes:

- Recognize signs of heat illness immediately; move affected individuals to a cool place, remove excess clothing, and encourage water consumption. If symptoms persist or worsen call 911 or proceed to an emergency room.

- Avoid strenuous activities during peak daytime temperatures; schedule such activities for early morning or evening hours when it is cooler.

- Drink 2-4 glasses of water per hour during extreme heat even without feeling thirsty; avoid alcohol or caffeine.

- Infants under six months should not be given water but may need more frequent breastfeeding or additional breast milk/formula in a bottle.

- Stay out of direct sunlight; seek air-conditioned environments like libraries or malls if home cooling is unavailable.

- Take tepid showers or baths; sudden temperature changes can cause dizziness or sickness.

- When outdoors wear sunscreen with SPF 15+, hats for face/head protection; opt for loose-fitting lightweight light-colored clothing covering as much skin as possible.

The National Weather Service offers an hourly updated Heat Risk Tool accessible at https://www.wpc.ncep.noaa.gov/heatrisk/. For information on cooler centers visit https://www.albanycounty.com/home or access statewide resources at https://www.health.ny.gov/environmental/weather/cooling/.