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St. Margaret’s Hospital has instituted an emergency shelter program to provide an environment for those people who are unable to tolerate extreme weather conditions such as power outages in extreme heat or no air conditioning. Those people who qualify must be capable of independent living and be able to care for themselves. St. Margaret’s Para Transit will provide services for those participants who require transportation. These services will be provided during the normal business hours of the Para Transit Department.
There are some common sense guidelines to assist you during extreme temperatures:
· Spend some time in air conditioning, if possible. Even just two hours a day in air conditioning can significantly reduce the risk of heat-related illness.
· Drink plenty of water and natural juices, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
· Slow down. Avoid strenuous activity.
· Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
· Avoid going out in the blazing heat, if you can.
· If you must be out in the sun, use sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat.
· Keep shades drawn and blinds closed, but windows open slightly.
· Keep lights down low or turned off.
· Take cool baths or showers periodically, use cool wet towels.
· Eat small meals and eat more often. Avoid foods that are high in protein, which increase metabolic heat.
· Avoid using the oven.
· Avoid alcoholic beverages and beverages with caffeine such as coffee, tea and cola.
· Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician.
· Do not leave children or pets in a closed vehicle, even for a few minutes. Temperatures inside a closed vehicle can reach 140 to 190 within 30 minutes on a hot day.
· Schools should restrict strenuous outdoor athletic activity when a heat advisory is in effect. All physical education and athletic activity should be canceled when a heat warning is in effect.
· Stay informed about the heat wave by listening to NOAA Weather Radio, or commercial radio and television for the latest heat warnings and advisories.
Know the illnesses heat can produce and how to treat each one:
Heat Cramps -
Symptoms: Painful spasms usually in muscles of legs and abdomen due to heavy exertion. Heavy Sweating.
Heat Exhaustion-
Symptoms: Heavy Sweating. Skin cool, pale and clammy. Pulse fast and weak. Breathing fast and shallow. Normal temperature. Fainting, vomiting, dizziness, nausea.
Heat Stroke -
Symptoms: High body temperature of 103 to as high as 106. Hot, red, dry skin. No Sweating. Rapid pulse. Breathing fast and shallow. Headache, nausea, dizziness, confusion. Possible unconsciousness.
If any of these symptoms are occuring, please contact your physcian.
More information may be obtained concerning the emergency shelter by calling 664-5311 or 223-5346.
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