Even if you think that global climate change is not real, you cannot ignore the heat that is baking the US at present. There is also a drought in Africa that is resulting in famine. The rains and run off from snow melt combined to create flooding in the Midwest this past spring and the evaporating waters drive the humidity to raise the heat index to record levels.
Throughout all of this we need to keep in touch with our aging relatives and neighbors. The power grid is being stressed and we are beginning to hear about brown outs and other power interruptions. This raises the risk of heat related injury and death, especially for the very young and the very old.
One of the problems for the aging population is that they do not notice that they are becoming dehydrated. By the time they are thirsty they are already at risk. Be sure that they stay out of the heat in an air conditioned area and that they drink at least a quart of water or non-alcoholic beverage an hour if they are not in air conditioning. Preventing heat stress is easier than treating it.
If your family member or friend is in distress, call 911. They will send help and will provide guidance for what you can do while waiting for the Emergency Services to get to you.s
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