Community Corner

Danger Signs For Heat Stroke

Town issues warning about the dangers of heat-related illnesses.

Posted by Heather Doyle. Written by Joe Dowd.

This weekend saw the year's first real heat wave and more are on the way. 

The Town of Oyster Bay issued an advisory to residents last week about the dangers that an accompany hot summer days. 

“Heat and high humidity can wreak havoc on even the healthiest bodies,” said Town Supervisor John Venditto . “Everyone should be aware of some of the most common heat-related problems and ways to treat them, including dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.”

According to the town: 

  • Dehydration is the most reported heat-related occurrence; rink enough fluids to replace what your bodies lose. Water and sports drinks are the suggested replacements.
  • Some muscle relaxants and sedatives can cause adverse reactions with sunlight. Check with your doctor to see what, if any, special precautions you should take when the temperature begins to rise.
  • Extreme heat can be particularly dangerous to those who exercise outdoors.  Vigorous exercise can lead to heat exhaustion and, eventually, heat stroke. The symptoms of heat exhaustion, which include nausea, weakness, and dizziness. 
Immediate measures are necessary to cool a person exhibiting these symptoms including moving them to a shady, cool place, removing layers of clothing, and drinking cold fluids. Heat stroke is a medical emergency because the body’s cooling system has shut down and the victim’s temperature can get dangerously high, Venditto said.

Symptoms include rapid heartbeat, confusion, agitation, stupor and even loss of consciousness.

Some other general tips: 
  • If you have an air-conditioner in your home, use it.
  • If you don’t, try visiting a mall, movie theater, library or a friend with air conditioning.
  • Eat light meals and cold foods. Use a microwave or toaster oven or cook outside to avoid heating up the house.
  • Drink plenty of liquids.
“Heat and humidity are part of life on Long Island in the summer,” Venditto said. “With some simple planning and good old common sense, though, most heat-related problems can be avoided.”


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