Vermont Business Magazine Summer-like warmth, with temperatures in the 80s, is expected to continue across the North Country through the weekend. This early season heat tends to lead to two potential dangers – heat related illness and recreating in dangerous cold water.
Hazards to early season heat
Many of us eagerly await the first signs of summertime warmth after a long winter. As the temperature climbs, so do the number of people going outside to enjoy the weather. Because heat is more likely to cause illness when we’re not used to it, it’s important to play it safe during these first warm days.
Studies show that for people in our area, the risk for heat-related health impacts is higher as temperatures warm to 80°F and warmer, especially on sunny, humid days since our bodies are still adjusting to the warmer conditions.
Certain individuals are at an increased risk of heat-related illness – and in extreme situations, even death. People who work or exercise outdoors, older adults and young children, people who are obese or have a chronic medical condition, people taking certain medications, and people using drugs or alcohol, should take extra precautions.
Signs of heat-related illnesses
Heat cramps may be the first sign of heat-related illnesses. Other signs can include weakness, heavy sweating, nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. These symptoms can usually be treated through rest in a cool, shady place and by drinking cool beverages. If symptoms do not improve or if confusion or fainting occurs, you should seek immediate medical attention, as heat stroke can result in death.
Heat safety tips
- Never leave children, people with disabilities, older adults, or pets in parked vehicles. Look before you lock!
- Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing to reflect heat and sunlight.
- Drink plenty of water, or non-alcoholic and decaffeinated fluids.
- Seek relief in air-conditioned spaces or other cool and shady places.
- If you must be outside, slow down, take frequent
breaks in the shade, and limit outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day.
Dangers of Recreating in Cold Water
After the long winter, most of us are eager to get outside, including enjoying our local waterways. However, when going to area lakes and rivers on a warm day during the spring, recreationists need to be mindful that water temperatures remain dangerously cold.
Current surface water temperatures on Lake Champlain and other water bodies are only in the 40s and typically remain in the 40s through May and don’t exceed the 50s until the second half of June. Immersion in waters of those temperatures can lead to hypothermia.
Immersion in cold water can become life threatening very quickly. Should your craft capsize, hypothermia in waters less than 50 degrees can occur in just a matter of minutes.
Water conducts body heat away up to 25 times faster than air of the same temperature, the cold water rapidly causes extremities to become numb, weakens the ability of muscles to work effectively (known as “COLD SHOCK”) and eventually lead to hypothermia.
Unfortunately at least 5 people have died due to cold water related drownings in the North Country in the past year, NONE of them were wearing a personal flotation device.
Please remember these safety tips:
- Consider postponing small craft boating activities until water temperatures become warmer.
- If you do choose to boat, canoe, or kayak in the early season, wear a dry suit appropriate for water temperatures in the 40s and 50s.
- Wear all recommended protective gear to guard against the cold water in the event of an accident or capsize.
- Remember, no matter the season, when you are on the water, ALWAYS wear a personal flotation device.
- If you do venture on the waterways, make a plan and make sure you tell someone where you’re going.
Safe boating is no accident. Please take the time to think safety first and plan appropriately for weather and water conditions before heading out on lakes, rivers, and streams.
Source: 5.12.2022. Burlington – healthvermont.gov
