KING COUNTY, WASHINGTON - With continued high temperatures in the forecast, serious medical problems can follow, particularly for older adults, young children, people with chronic illness, and people with weight or alcohol problems.
“Even in the Pacific Northwest, heat-related health problems can become an issue in the summer,” said Dorothy Teeter, Interim Director and Health Officer at Public Health - Seattle & King County. “When the thermometer rises, take steps to avoid getting heat exhaustion or heat stroke.”
To beat the heat, Public Health - Seattle & King County offers these essential recommendations:
- Slow down and reduce strenuous exercise.
- Dress for summer in lightweight clothing.
- Drink plenty of water or non-alcoholic beverages.
- Spend more time in air conditioned places. If you don’t have air conditioning, think about visiting a mall or movie theater.
- Don’t get too much sun.
Additional health-related recommendations include:
- Do not take salt tablets unless directed to by a physician.
- Check up on your elderly neighbors or relatives.
- Check with your physician if you are concerned about heat and the specific medications you are taking. Certain medications may increase sensitivity to the heat.
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Providing effective and innovative health and disease prevention services for over 1.8 million residents and visitors of King County, Public Health – Seattle & King County works for safer and healthier communities for everyone, every day.
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