The McKee administration is reminding Rhode Islanders of safety tips to prevent illness and injury during the ongoing heat wave.
“Extreme heat can be a serious issue,” said Gov. Dan McKee. “With the temperatures we are seeing and expecting over the coming days, people should be checking on each other, staying hydrated, limiting their exposure to the heat, and watching for signs of heat-related illness. A few small steps can help people stay healthy and safe.”
The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Warning for most of Southern New England from Wednesday through Friday, with temperatures forecast between 95 and 100 degrees.
The Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency maintains a list of cooling centers operated by cities and towns for those seeking relief. To find one, call 2-1-1 or visit riema.ri.gov/resources/cooling-centers. Individuals experiencing homelessness who need help finding a cooling center should visit their regional access point for support.
Officials noted that when it is very hot and humid, sweating isn’t enough to cool the body, and body temperature can rise quickly, leading to heat stroke, heat exhaustion or heat cramps. Certain populations are at increased risk, including babies and young children, people who are pregnant, children and teens with asthma, older adults, people who work or exercise outdoors, and people with chronic medical conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and obesity.
Indoors, officials advise staying in air-conditioned buildings as much as possible, using fans, shades and curtains to keep homes cool, taking cool showers or baths, drinking plenty of water while avoiding alcohol and caffeine, and never leaving children, pets or older adults in unattended cars. Outdoors, they recommend staying out of direct sun, wearing a brimmed hat and sunscreen, scheduling events for the cooler early morning hours and wearing light-colored, lightweight clothing.
The administration also urged residents to check on friends, family and neighbors and to watch for warning signs of heat exhaustion, which include heavy sweating; cold, pale and clammy skin; nausea or vomiting; tiredness; dizziness; or headache. If someone shows signs of heat exhaustion, move them to a cool place, apply a cool, wet cloth and have them sip water. Call for medical help if symptoms worsen or last longer than one hour.
Additional resources are available on the Rhode Island Department of Health’s extreme heat webpage at health.ri.gov/climate-change/extreme-heat.
