How to stay safe in extreme heat, according to the Virginia Department of Health

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) says it received over 3,600 heat-related 911 calls in 2024. With this week's heatwave upon us, the department is now sharing tips for Virginians to stay safe.

Last summer, Virginia had over 3,200 head-related illness visits to emergency rooms and urgent care centers statewide. Additionally, Virginia EMS clinicians responded to more than 3,600 heat-related illness calls during that heat season -- May to September. According to the National Weather Service, extreme heat was the leading cause of weather-related deaths in 2024.

Common heat-related illnesses like heat stroke and heat exhaustion take place when your body is not able to cool itself, and humidity plays a big role in that. The more humid an area is, the slower your sweat evaporates.

According to VDH, the following factors play a role in heat stroke/exhaustion:

• Age
• Weight
• Heart disease
• Poor circulation
• Sunburn
• Alcohol use
• Prescription drug use

VDH says you can take the following action to stay safe from heat-related illnesses:

• Stay Hydrated -- drink lots of water consistently
• Stay Cool -- stay inside with air-conditioning
• Dress Appropriately -- loose and lightweight clothing is the best for the heat, wear sunscreen and apply often
• Stay informed -- check Heat Risk Forecast or CDC Head and Health Tracker
• Do not leave children or pets in cars -- temperatures inside a car can rise 20 degrees within 10 minutes
• Check on Others -- if anyone around you or you know loses consciousness, has a fast or strong pulse, has hot and red skin or has a temperature of 103 or over, call the police

For more information and tips from the VDH, visit their website.