7/23/98  

Contact:  Robert Chartuk                                               

                                   
          
                          MEDIA ADVISORY 
                                  
        NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE LAUNCHES HEAT WAVE WEB SITE

With most of the nation in the grip of high heat, the National Weather Service offers relief--of sorts--over the Internet. A new National Weather Service Web site posts information on keeping cool, what makes a heat wave tick, precautions for the elderly and care givers, heat forecasts, and links to other pages to help the nation safely ride out the wave. The site is: http://weather.noaa.gov/weather/hwave.html

To better cope with the heat and help protect family and friends, the Weather Service offers the following tips:

* Seek out an air conditioned environment. Avoid areas that lack sufficient ventilation.

* Increase intake of beverages such as water and juice avoid carbonated, caffeinated, and alcoholic drinks.

* Wear clothing that is light in color and loose fitting.

* Avoid the outdoors and stay out of the sun.

* Check on the elderly they are especially susceptible to heat-related illnesses.

* Avoid strenuous activity such as running, biking, and yard work. Take frequent breaks.

* Eat less and avoid heavy foods that stoke the internal fire. Proteins are an example.

Heat related illnesses and their symptoms include:

* Sunburn Redness and pain in the skin. Severe cases also include swelling, blisters, fever, and headaches.

* Heat cramps Heavy sweating and painful spasms, usually in the legs or abdomen.

* Heat exhaustion Weakness and excessive sweating. Skin is cold, pale and clammy. The pulse becomes rapid. Fainting and vomiting are possible.

* Heatstroke/Sunstroke High body temperature (106 degrees F or higher). Hot, dry skin and a rapid and strong pulse. Unconsciousness is possible.

Remember: Heat-related illnesses can be fatal. Should someone succumb to heat, immediately move him or her to a cooler area and seek emergency medical assistance or bring the person to the hospital. Reduce body temperature with cool bath or sponging.