An excessive heat warning is in effect for the area beginning July 4th. Philadelphia Health
Commissioner Donald Schwarz issued the warning for the city on Tuesday night. It begins at 11 a.m. on Wednesday and continues until Thursday at 6 p.m.
The warning signals the activation of the city’s special heat programs, according to the health department. These programs include home visits by special field teams, the operation of the Heatline, outreach to the homeless and the Buddy System.
The announcement comes the day of the confirmed heat-related death of a 70-year-old man in Mount Airy. Officials say the man was the fourth person in the region to die from the hot weather so far this season.
"We strongly urge the public to visit older friends, relatives and neighbors to ensure that air conditioners or fans are working and homes are adequately ventilated,” said Health Commissioner Schwarz. “In a heatwave, the majority of the victims are older people and those with pre-existing medical conditions.”
The Heatline (215-765-9040) will be in operation beginning 11 a.m. on Wednesday.
Officials say older people with chronic medical conditions such as heart disease are most at risk in extreme heat. People taking certain regular medications, pregnant women, small children, those who work in a high heat environment and those engaged in strenuous physical activity are also at risk.
The following symptoms are early signs of heat stress:
- Decreased energy
- Slight loss of appetite
- Faintness
- Light-headedness
- Nausea
- Anyone who experiences these symptoms should go to a cool environment, drink fluids, remove excess clothing and rest.
The following symptoms are serious signs of heat stress:
- Unconsciousness
- Rapid heartbeat
- Throbbing headache
- Dry skin
- Chest pain
- Mental Confusion
- Irritability
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Muscle Cramps
- Staggering
- Difficulty breathing
Anyone experiencing these symptoms should get medical attention immediately. While waiting for help. The person should be moved to a cool area, removed of excess clothing, sprayed with water and fanned.
Local
Breaking news and the stories that matter to your neighborhood.
Fan, follow and download: Get the latest from NBCPhiladelphia.com anytime, anywhere. Follow NBC10 Earthwatch on Facebook. Sign up for our weather newsletter. And, get weather forecasts delivered right to your mobile phone -- just text PHIWEATHER to 639710 to sign up. (Message and data rates may apply.)
