Write a commentAccording to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), extreme heat is the leading cause of weather-related deaths in the United States.
The National Weather Service – Buffalo has issued a HEAT ADVISORY for our area from Tuesday, June 18th through Thursday, June 20th. High temperatures and humidity are expected, causing a heat index to be over 100° Fahrenheit at times.
City of Oswego residents are reminded to take the proper precautions to avoid dangerous heat-related illnesses. Monitoring weather conditions and forecasts, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding outdoor exertion during times of high temperatures are good ways to beat the heat. If you must be outside, be sure to wear sunblock and limit time outdoors and activities as much as possible. It is also important to check on friends, loved ones, and pets that may need assistance with staying cool.
Symptoms of heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion are dizziness, extreme thirst, excessive sweating, nausea, and weakness.Those experiencing heat exhaustion should move to a cool place, loosen clothing, sip water, and seek medical attention if symptoms do not improve. Heat exhaustion can quickly develop into heat stroke – a serious medical condition that requires emergency treatment.
Oswego Fire Chief Paul Conzone said, “Heat-related illnesses can quickly become life-threatening situations that require immediate emergency interventions. Heat exhaustion is a serious condition that can quickly lead to heat stroke, unconsciousness, and ultimately cardiac arrest. We encourage everyone to monitor their own symptoms as well as family members - typically dizziness, nausea, and weakness are good indicators of an impending heat-related illness that can be reversed by cooling off, rest, and hydration. If symptoms do not improve, calling 911 immediately is imperative.”
Residents and visitors can beat the heat and cool off at the Oswego Splash Pad & Playground – located at Breitbeck Park, as well as enjoy the large sprinklers at Oak Hill Park, Kingsford Park, and Franklin Square. Sheldon Beach and Lakeside Park also offer great options for access to Lake Ontario.
Oswego Mayor Robert Corradino said, “Keeping our community safe is our #1 priority. I encourage our residents to do their part by keeping themselves safe, but also by checking on neighbors that might need a hand. Keeping cool by visiting the Splash Pad, or one of the parks with sprinklers seems like great ways to beat the heat. I’d like to commend our team here at the City of Oswego, especially those working outside this week ensuring essential services are intact, Thank You!”
