Stay Safe This Summer: Local Health Experts Share Essential Tips to Prevent Heat-Related Illness

Heat Safety in Portland: What You Should Know

Portland has been experiencing unusually high temperatures this week, reaching into the 90s. With this rise in heat, it’s essential to recognize signs of heat-related illness and know how to stay safe.

Dr. Anne Toledo, the Chief of Urgent Care at Kaiser Permanente Northwest, shares that our region’s weather patterns are changing. Traditionally, the Pacific Northwest was known for its cooler, rainy climate. However, summers are now seeing more days over 90 degrees than in past decades.

Heat-related illnesses develop slowly. Initially, you might just feel tired or thirsty after spending time outside. But if you ignore these signs, symptoms can worsen quickly. As the heat affects you more, expect headaches, irritability, or nausea.

Dr. Toledo advises that if you start experiencing these symptoms, you should seek shade immediately. Applying ice packs to areas like your armpits or the back of your knees can help, along with taking a lukewarm bath and drinking electrolyte-rich fluids. If confusion or vomiting occurs, it’s crucial to head to the emergency room for advanced treatment, like IV fluids.

Parents should be especially cautious. Children’s bodies heat up faster and are less efficient at sweating, making them more vulnerable to the heat.

When you’re out in the sun, choosing the right sunscreen matters. Dr. Toledo recommends mineral sunscreens because they work immediately—unlike chemical sunscreens, which take longer to become effective.

Hydration is also key. Many mistakenly believe that drinks like iced coffee or beer can replenish lost fluids. According to Dr. Toledo, this isn’t true. The American Red Cross Cascades Region’s Isabel Anderson emphasizes the need for consistent hydration. She suggests drinking a glass of water every 20 minutes, even if you’re not thirsty.

Staying cool and connected is vital during heat waves. Anderson points out that extreme heat can be dangerous without visible signs. It’s important to check in on neighbors and loved ones, ensuring everyone stays safe.

If you don’t have air conditioning, look for local places like malls or libraries to cool off. Even sitting outside in the shade is a better option than staying indoors where the heat lingers.

As temperatures rise, awareness and preparation can help prevent heat-related issues. Keep these tips in mind to protect yourself and others.

For more information on heat safety, visit the American Red Cross.

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