The department also monitors the incidence of heat-related illness and death, especially during heat waves. The Department of Health will issue a statewide Hot Weather Health Warning when the afternoon heat index has been at least 105 for two days and when weather forecasts call for continued high-stress conditions for at least 48 hours over a large proportion of the state. For additional information on preventing heat-related illness and the state's heat alert policy, see the attached material. Those most prone to heat exhaustion are elderly people, people with high blood pressure and people working or exercising in a hot environment. Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or last longer than one hour.
Heat stroke can develop within minutes or hours.
Heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability if emergency treatment is not given. Treatment includes rapidly lowering the person's body temperature followed by intensive supportive care. Get medical assistance as soon as possible. While outdoors, rest frequently in a shady area so that your body's thermostat has a chance to recover. Schedule outdoor activities carefully, preferably before noon or in the evening, If unaccustomed to working or exercising in a hot environment, start slowly, pick up the pace gradually and limit your exercise or work time.