Media Release

For Immediate Release
Date: August 2, 2006

HEALTH Issues Heat Advisory

The Rhode Island Department of Health (HEALTH), in conjunction with all RI hospitals, has been actively tracking heat-related illnesses for the past 48 hours. This morning (Wednesday) there were a significant number of heat-related illnesses at an outdoor camp at a college campus. The National Weather Service has extended the heat advisory until 5 p.m., Thursday, August 3.

HEALTH strongly recommends that all Rhode Islanders take all necessary precautions to prevent heat-related illness. Precautions include:

• Stay out of the direct sun. Seek shaded or air conditioned areas such as public libraries, malls or cooling centers. (See attached list of cooling centers.)
• Avoid strenuous physical activity.
• Drink plenty of fluids. (Avoid caffeine - including soda and alcohol because it increases urination.)
• Wear light-colored and light-weight clothing
• Check in with the elderly, small children and people with chronic health conditions.
• Anyone showing signs of heat stroke (altered mental state, not sweating, nausea) should seek immediate medical attention.

"Following these common-sense practices are critical to preventing heat-related illnesses," said Director of Health David R. Gifford, MD, MPH.

The Family Health Information Line (1-800-942-7434) will be open until 7p.m. on Wednesday to answer questions about heat-related illness.