The heat is on; what you need to know

The National Weather Service in Mount Holly has issued an excessive heat watch through Sunday evening.

Heat index values of 105 to 110 Friday through Sunday are possible, due to temperatures in the mid to upper 90s, and dew points in the mid -70s. Some areas may reach 100 degrees for daytime temperatures on Saturday.

An excessive heat watch means that a prolonged period of hot temperatures is expected. The combination of hot temperatures and high humidity will combine to create a dangerous situation in which heat illnesses are possible.

Stay cool, stay safe

The American Red Cross has steps to stay safe:

• Never leave children or pets in your vehicle. The inside temperature of the car can quickly reach 120 degrees.

• Stay hydrated, drink plenty of fluids. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol.

• Wear loosefitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors as they absorb the sun’s rays.

• Slow down, stay indoors. Avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day.

• Postpone outdoor games and activities.

• Use a buddy system when working in excessive heat. Take frequent breaks if working outdoors.

• Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning, who spend much of their time alone or who are more likely to be affected by the heat.

• If you don’t have air conditioning, go to public spaces for relief from the heat during the warmest part of the day.

Heat risks

• Excessive heat can lead to sunburn, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. If someone is experiencing heat cramps in the legs or abdomen, get them to a cooler place, have them rest, lightly stretch the affected muscle, and replenish their fluids with a half a glass (about 4 ounces) of cool water every 15 minutes.

• If someone is exhibiting signs of heat exhaustion (cool, moist, pale or flushed skin, heavy sweating, headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness exhaustion), move them to a cooler place, remove or loosen tight clothing and spray the person with water or apply cool, wet cloths or towels to the skin. Fan the person. If they are conscious, give small amounts of cool water to drink. Make sure the person drinks slowly. Watch for changes in condition. If the person refuses water, vomits or begins to lose consciousness, call 911.

• Signs of heat stroke include hot, red skin which may be dry or moist; changes in consciousness; vomiting and high body temperature. Call 911 immediately if someone shows signs of heat stroke. Move the person to a cooler place. Quickly cool the person’s body by immersing them up to their neck in cold water if possible. Otherwise, douse or spray the person with cold water, or cover the person with cold, wet towels or bags of ice.

• Check on animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat. Make sure they have plenty of shade and cool water.

• Animals can suffer heat stroke, a common problem for pets in the warmer weather. Some of the signs of heat stroke in your pet are: heavy panting and unable to calm down, even when lying down; brick red gum color, fast pulse rate.

• If you suspect your pet has heat stroke, take their temperature rectally. If the temperature is above 105 degrees, cool the animal down. The easiest way to do this is by using the water hose. Stop cooling the animal when the temperature reaches 103 degrees. Seek help immediately.