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Health Officials Urge Caution in the Heat

by KREX News Room
by Danielle Kreutter

Story Created: Jun 20, 2012 at 10:19 PM MDT

Story Updated: Jun 21, 2012 at 2:16 PM MDT

MESA COUNTY, Colo.- Wednesday is the first day of summer, and with triple-digit temperatures in Mesa County's future, health officials are urging residents to take precautions to prevent heat-related illness and death.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heat is the No. 1 weather-related killer in the U.S.

Many people will be outside participating in summer activities or outdoor projects, and health officials want to remind them to be cautious.

"Heat-related illnesses can range from anything from heat cramps or heat exhaustion, which are more mild forms of heat-related illness, to heat stroke or hypothermia, which is the most dangerous form of heat-related illness," said Karen Martsolf of the Mesa County Health Department.

Officials recommend drinking plenty of water and wearing light colors, long sleeves and loose fitting clothing while outdoors. They also say you should schedule outdoor activities at times when it may be cooler and use a buddy system while doing activities like hiking, biking and climbing.

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