How to beat the heat this weekend

Amanda Pitts

By: Amanda Pitts

alpitts@abc6.com

@APittsABC6

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) – Rhode Island is bracing for a potential heatwave this weekend, and so is much of the country. Over 180 million people in the Midwest and along the East Coast could see record-setting temperatures.

The Rhode Island Department of Health is sharing tips to stay safe and cool as temperatures are expected to exceed 90 degrees over the next few days.

“One of the most important things is really to make sure people are staying hydrated, they’re drinking lots and lots of water.”

Joseph Wendelken, the spokesperson for RIDOH, shared that it’s important to drink water before feeling thirsty and try to limit time outdoors. Wendelken said it’s smart to spend time outside in the early morning or late afternoon, avoiding the mid-afternoon peak.

“If someone has to be outside, take lots of shade breaks. Make sure you’re staying hydrated, sunscreen, wear light clothing.”

It’s also important to reach out to those who are most susceptible to heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

“It’s really important that people check on them, check on neighbors, grandparents, parents, make sure everyone is healthy and safe. Their bodies are just not as resilient and able to manage some of the stressors that we start experiencing when the heat starts to climb.”

Symptoms of heat stroke or heat exhaustion include:

  • Confusion.
  • Dark-colored urine (a sign of dehydration)
  • Dizziness
  • Fainting
  • Fatigue
  • Headache
  • Muscle or abdominal cramps
  • Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

The Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency has provided a list of cooling centers across the state. Click here for more information.

For a list of public pools and water park facilities in the city of Providence, click here.

© WLNE-TV 2019

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