Medics in Cumberland and other nearby counties responded to calls of heat exhaustion today. Outside temperatures are projected to reach the upper 80’s in Crossville today and tomorrow (June 6-7, 2020) and break 90 degrees in the valley. That is not including the heat index.

Here are some tips in this hot weather:

• Slow Down – certain activities should be reduced or rescheduled for the cooler times of day.
• Dress for the Heat – light-colored and lightweight clothing will reflect the sunlight and heat.
• Drink Plenty of Water – the body needs water to stay cool. Drink plenty of fluids even if you’re not thirsty.
• Stay away from alcoholic drinks
• Try to stay away from getting too much sun – sunburns make it difficult to control body heat
• Spend more time in air-conditioning
• Certain temperatures can cause different effects on people with excessive exposure or physical activity:
• 80-90 degree heat indexes can cause fatigue possible.
• 90-105 degree heat indexes can cause heat cramps, heat exhaustion and sunstroke possible.
• 105-130 degree heat indexes can cause sunstroke, heat cramps/heat exhaustion likely and heat stroke possible.

AAA offered several tips of preventing heatstroke in hot cars:

• Never leave a child alone in a car
• Keep all car doors and trunks locked with key fobs out of reach, so children cannot climb into a car on their own.
• Create reminders by placing your phone, purse or briefcase in the back seat by a child.