Health Officials Warn of Heat Illness in Extreme Temperatures for the Weekend

FREDERICK, Md.(KR) Extreme temperatures are expected for the next few days and meteorologist say we could see 100 degrees. Health officials are warning families to stay hydrated, covered in sunscreen and protected from heat illness.

Dr. Clifford Mitchell, with the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene says everyone should exercise common sense during the summer months, especially in the water.

“Drownings are one of the most common deaths for children, both young children and also teenagers. We can’t emphasize enough, the importance of preventing yourself and others from drowning, which includes never swimming in a place by yourself, making sure you’ve always got buddies, making sure that young children are appropriately watched at all times and if they have the need for life preservers or life jackets, they’ve already got them,” said Dr. Mitchell.

He also said it is important to stay out of pools, lakes and rivers if you are sick and to always rinse off after you get out, “Especially if you are going to be eating, that you wash your hands after you’ve been in the water.”

Dr. Mitchell said even if it is cloudy, sunscreen is a must. Look for products with UVA and UVB protection and an SPF of at least 15.