Orange County Fire Rescue Department
Public Information Office
Carl L. Plaugher, Fire Chief

MEDIA ADVISORY

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE            
Contact:  Marianne Nuckles/Paramedic/PIO                                                         
PIO Pager: 407-836-9890  

Orange County, Fl., This Independence Day weekend, temperatures are expected to climb back into the 90’s. Environmental factors have a direct affect in a person’s body core temperature. The body's core temperature is the temperature of internal primary organs. The ideal core body temperature of a healthy adult human has traditionally been stated as 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit. The upper safe core temperature limit is approximately 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Hyperthermia is an acute condition that occurs when the body produces or absorbs more heat that it can dissipate; untreated conditions can result in death. 

This weekend as you are enjoying the festivities, Orange County Firefighters what to remind everyone to monitor there hydration levels and limit prolonged strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day. The harder you exert yourself the higher your temperature will rise. Hyperthermia also affects people who are unable to modify their environment such as infants, the elderly, bed-ridden people and people who are taking certain type of medication.

Preventing hyperthermia is relatively straightforward. Hyperthermia is a condition that is much better prevented then treated.  Protect yourself from heat-related illness by following these additional prevention tips:

•Do not drink liquids that contain caffeine, alcohol, or large amounts of sugar–these actually cause you to lose more body fluid.
•Electric fans may provide comfort, but when the temperature is in the high 90s, fans will not prevent heat-related illness. Taking a cool shower or bath, or move in to an air-conditioned location. 
•Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing and a hat.
•NEVER leave anyone (including pets) in a closed, parked vehicle.

In addition, it is important to recognize some of the associated symptoms of rising body core temperature. Symptoms may include, feeling of weakness, headache, blurred vision, dizziness, nausea, and cramps or lost of conscious.

If the victim is exhibiting signs of severe symptoms, emergency assistance should be sought immediately.

Orange County Fire Rescue wishes everyone a safe and joyful July 4th.

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