King County reports first heat-related death

Seattle’s record heat wave has contributed to the death of a Seattle man, King County officials said Thursday.

The man, in his 60s, had a heart condition that may have made him more vulnerable to the effects this week’s high temperatures in the Seattle area, officials said.

Dr. David Fleming, director and health officer for Public Health – Seattle & King County warned that people with chronic conditions, like heart disease, are more vulnerable to the effects of heat.

“Tragically, excessive heat exposure can be fatal, and it’s possible that we may see additional deaths before the heat wave ends,” he said.

In addition to those with chronic diseases, older adults, young children, and people with weight and alcohol problems are also vulnerable to high temperatures.

“People with underlying conditions like heart disease need to take it easy, and all of us need to check on frail family, friends and neighbors, especially if they live alone, to make sure they are safe and cool,” said Fleming.

The city and the county have opened libraries, senior and community centers, and other air-conditioned facilities to serve as “Cooling Shelters” where people can go to get out of the heat.

A list of these shelters as wells as tips to help you “Beat the Heat” can be found at: www.kingcounty.gov/health/BeatTheHeat

To learn more:

• Read the “Tips to stay health in hot weather” put out by Public Health – Seattle & King County below.

Tips to stay healthy in the hot weather

Stay cool

• Spend more time in air conditioned places. If you don’t have air conditioning, consider visiting a library, mall, movie theater or other cool public places.
• Cover windows that receive morning or afternoon sun.
• Dress in lightweight clothing.
• Check up on your elderly neighbors and relatives.

Drink liquids

• Drink plenty of water or non-alcoholic beverages.
• Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink.

If you go outside

• Limit your direct exposure to the sun.
• Do not leave infants, children, people with mobility challenges and pets in a parked car, even with the window rolled down.
• Avoid or reduce strenuous activity.
• Limit outdoor activity to morning and evening hours.
• Avoid sunburn. Use a sunscreen lotion with a high SPF (sun protection factor) rating.

Check with your physician if you are concerned about heat and the specific medications you are taking. Certain medications may increase sensitivity to the heat. Do not take salt tablets unless directed to by a physician.

Recognizing heat exhaustion and heat stroke

Overheating occurs when people’s bodies are not able to cool themselves quickly enough and can lead to symptoms of heat exhaustion, including muscle cramps, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea and vomiting.

If you notice someone with signs of overheating, move the person to a cooler location, have them rest for a few minutes and slowly drink a cool beverage. Seek medical attention for them immediately if they do not feel better.

On severe instances, people can suffer heat stroke, which can cause can cause death or permanent disability if emergency treatment is not provided.

Symptoms of heat stroke include:

• an extremely high body temperature (above 103°F)
• red and hot skin
• rapid, strong pulse
• nausea, confusion and unconsciousness

For more tips and resources on staying cool in hot weather, visit www.kingcounty.gov/health/BeatTheHeat

Tags: Heat, Heat Stroke, Seattle, Washington

Category: Heart & Circulation, Newborn and Infant Health, Prevention, Public Health, Senior Health