Excessive Heat

Heat is the number one weather-related killer in the United States, resulting in hundreds of fatalities each year. In fact, on average, excessive heat claims more lives each year than floods, lightning, tornadoes and hurricanes combined. In the disastrous heat wave of 1980, more than 1,250 people died.

Heat Disorder Symptoms

Heat is the number one weather-related killer in the United States, resulting in hundreds of fatalities each year. In fact, on average, excessive heat claims more lives each year than floods, lightning, tornadoes and hurricanes combined. In the disastrous heat wave of 1980, more than 1,250 people died.

Heat Disorder Symptoms

• Sunburn
• Heat Cramps
• Heat Exhaustion
• Heat Stroke

Heat, Cars, Children & Pets

Studies have shown that the temperature inside a parked vehicle can rise rapidly to a dangerous level for children, pets and even adults. Do not leave children or pets in an enclosed vehicle during extreme temperatures.

• Leaving the windows slightly open does not significantly decrease the heating rate.
• The effects can be more severe on children because their bodies warm at a faster rate than adults.
• Each year children and pets die from hyperthermia as a result of being left enclosed in parked vehicles.
• Hyperthermia is an acute condition that occurs when the body absorbs more heat than it can dissipate. This can occur even on a mild day.
• Check to make sure seating surfaces and equipment (child safety seat and safety belt buckles) aren't too hot when securing your child in a safety restraint system in a car that has been parked in the heat.
• Never leave your child or pet unattended in a vehicle, even with the windows down.
• Teach children not to play in, on, or around cars.
• Always lock car doors and trunks - even at home.
• Keep keys out of children's reach. Always make sure all child passengers have left the car when you reach your destination.
• Don't overlook sleeping infants.

Heat Wave Safety Tips