Outdoor safety tips for sustained summer heat

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) — Summer is here, and the temperature is rising quickly in Hamilton County.

Hamilton County EMS is urging the community to practice heat safety this summer.

“The temperatures have soared. Suddenly staying high, a sustainable high for the next couple of weeks looks like,” said Mike Garren, PIO and recruiter for Hamilton County EMS.

News 12 Chief Meteorologist Austen Onek says weekend temperatures are expected to reach in the high 90s.

Mike Garren with Hamilton County EMS points out what’s different about this heatwave.

“We are not used to this kind of heat, sustained kind of heat,” Garren said. “Most of us are indoors. And then we go outside. Kids are out of school. We think we’re ready. We’re in good shape. And we go outside, and it didn’t take long for these kinds of temperatures to catch up with you.”

Heat exhaustion can eventually lead to a heat stroke.

Being overheated can cause symptoms such as confusion and dizziness.

Garren says being hydrated is key to having a fun and safe summer.

“You want to avoid excessive caffeine, alcohol, energy drinks, things of that nature. Just good, plain water. Gatorade, Powerade… it’s good, but you don’t want to drink just that. You want to alternate it with water. Water is the most important, and taking multiple breaks, get in the shade, coming in if you can. Just pacing yourself,” Garren said.

Know the difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke, and learn how to respond: