Wisconsin Heat Awareness Day is June 5, 2019

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WISCONSIN EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT RELEASE: 

While many people look forward to warmer temperatures during the summer months, it’s also important to remember that hot conditions can turn dangerous quickly. June 5, 2019 is Heat Awareness Day in Wisconsin.

In 2018, preliminary figures from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services show five people died in Wisconsin due to heat-related causes. In the last five years, at least 13 people have died in Wisconsin and thousands of residents have fallen ill or been hospitalized due to heat-related conditions.

“Death or illness due to extreme heat can occur with little warning,” said Wisconsin Emergency Management Administrator Brian Satula. “Many victims of heat-related illnesses are socially isolated, so please stay in contact with family members and friends who are elderly or have mobility issues during hot weather.”

It is important to take care of yourself and to check in on family, friends, and neighbors during periods of extreme heat. Those most vulnerable include very young children, the elderly, and people with heart disease or high blood pressure. Individuals who are overweight or on certain medications may also be more susceptible to illnesses during extreme heat events.

The inside of a car can be especially dangerous, with temperatures inside a vehicle able to climb very quickly – as much as 20 degrees Fahrenheit in just 10 minutes. Never leave a child or pet inside a parked car. Leaving a window cracked is not enough.

Tips for staying safe during extreme heat:
-Stay cool – Remain inside air-conditioned buildings as much as possible during the hottest parts of the day and avoid direct sunlight.
-Stay aware – Watch for signs of heat-related illnesses, such as weakness, dizziness, nausea, and muscle cramps. If symptoms don’t improve, seek medical attention.
-Stay hydrated – Drink plenty of water. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink!
-Stay informed – Pay attention to local weather forecasts and extreme heat alerts.

Find ReadyWisconsin’s full packet on Heat Awareness Day online at https://readywisconsin.wi.gov/wp-content/uploads/Be_Informed/PDF/HeatAwarenessDay2019.pdf

ReadyWisconsin offers tips for a safe Memorial Day Weekend

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MADISON, Wis. — Memorial Day marks the start of the busy summer travel and cookout season for many people. Whether you are hitting the road or having friends over, ReadyWisconsin is encouraging everyone to make safety a priority.

“The holiday weekend is always a great time to take a short trip to visit with family and friends,” said Wisconsin Emergency Management Administrator Brian Satula. “By planning ahead and following these safety tips, everyone can enjoy their time together during the holiday.”

If you are traveling, make sure your car is ready for the trip. Pack a first-aid kit, bottled water and some energy bars, in case you get stranded. Bring a car adaptor for charging your cell phone.

Schedule road trips outside of peak travel times, so you can avoid traffic congestion. Consider leaving before rush hour on Friday or waiting until early Saturday morning. Driving back home Monday before 4 p.m. or after 10 p.m. can also help make for an easier return trip.

Be sure to check www.511wi.gov or call 511 for the latest traffic and road information on your route.

If you are feeling tired or ill, or have been drinking alcohol, let someone else drive or postpone your trip.

With temperatures warming up, remember to never leave people or pets inside a parked car. Temperatures inside a vehicle can climb to dangerous levels quickly, even on a cloudy day.

If you are grilling food, make sure you are following the manufacturer recommendations on proper use. Never leave a grill unattended and make sure you have a fire extinguisher available.

For more information go to readywisconsin.wi.gov. For daily safety tips and information, follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/readywisconsin) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/readywisconsin).