The first symptoms of heat illness occur as the body temperature climbs above normal, and can include headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle cramps and fatigue.  These early symptoms sometimes are called heat exhaustion.  If steps are not taken to reduce body temperature, heat exhaustion can worsen and become heat stroke. 

The following are symptoms of Heat Stroke:

ÿ       Headache

ÿ       Dizziness

ÿ       Weakness

ÿ       Heavy sweat or a lack of sweat

ÿ       Nausea

ÿ       Vomiting

ÿ       Muscle cramps

ÿ       Abdominal cramps

Excessive Heat Prevention Tips:

ÿ       Drink plenty of water

ÿ       Avoid caffeine and alcohol which can contribute to dehydration

ÿ       Stay indoors in an air-conditioned area whenever you feel too warm

ÿ       Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing that reflects the sun, preferably with

        a loose-weave material that lets air get to your skin

ÿ       Take a cool shower, bath or use a hose to soak yourself 

ÿ       Avoid strenuous activity in the hottest part of the day (between 10 a.m. and

       4 p.m.).  If you must participate, take frequent breaks.  Avoid wearing

       heavy uniforms or equipment

Other suggestions include:

ÿ       Check on the elderly and those confined to their homes to assure that they

        are ok

ÿ       Make sure that your pets have plenty of water and access to a well-

        ventilated, shaded area

When to call a professional:

Seek emergency help if you or someone else has been in the heat and experiences confusion, faintness, staggering, hallucinations (visions that are not real), unusual agitation or coma.  Begin cooling the person immediately. 

When the weather gets warm, play it safe while enjoying the beauty of Leelanau County.