Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes
- Near-record heat is expected in Salt Lake City this weekend.
- Dr. Tom Nelson advises precautions for vulnerable groups during extreme heat.
- Residents should stay hydrated, seek shade and monitor for heat-related illness signs.
SALT LAKE CITY — As temperatures climb toward near-record or record-breaking levels this weekend, health experts are urging residents to take precautions and watch for signs of heat-related illness.
Dr. Tom Nelson of Intermountain Healthcare said older adults, young children, pets and others who may not be able to communicate their symptoms are at the greatest risk during extreme heat.
"Those vulnerable populations — pets, young, elderly, those who can't really speak up for themselves — it's really important to keep an eye on them because heat-related illnesses can go south very quickly," Nelson said.
Nelson said hospitals often see an increase in heat-related illnesses as temperatures rise.
"As these temperatures start to ramp up, I anticipate we're going to start to see more folks, because you can see all sorts of heat-related illnesses," he said.
Many families are already adjusting their routines to avoid the hottest parts of the day. For Brianna Frazier, a mother of three, summertime activities begin early in the morning before temperatures peak.
"We'll be out doing as many outdoor things in the mornings when it's cooler or waiting until the sun is down to do some of those things," Frazier said.
When spending time outdoors, Frazier said she focuses on staying hydrated and limiting sun exposure.
"The No. 1 thing I'll be doing is lots of water, sunscreen and staying in the shade as much as possible," she said.
Doctors say those simple precautions can help prevent serious medical emergencies. Nelson recommends moving to a cooler location, drinking water and seeking air conditioning at the first signs of heat exhaustion.
"If you're worried that you are starting to kind of succumb to the heat, do the appropriate things: Get out of the heat, find some shade, drink some water, find air conditioning," he said.
Experts say confusion and a lack of sweating are among the most serious warning signs of heat-related illness.
"By the time a person is starting to get confused or not sweating, then you've reached the full emergency," Nelson said.
With forecasters calling for an extended stretch of triple-digit temperatures, health officials are encouraging residents to check on neighbors, family members and others who may be vulnerable.
Health experts say a simple phone call or visit could help prevent a heat-related tragedy during the prolonged heat wave.
