Boston Under a Heat Advisory; Here Are the Signs of Heat Stroke

Boston and surrounding areas are under a "heat advisory" today and tomorrow.

Just exactly what IS a Heat Advisory?  According to WCVB-TV, a heat advisory means that a period of hot temperatures is expected for a period of time.  The combination of high temps and humidity will create a situation where illness is possible, so the report recommends the following:

• Drink plenty of fluids
• Stay in the air conditioning
• Stay out of the sunshine
• Check up on relatives and neighbors to make sure they are cool and safe.
• Re-schedule, if possible, outdoor activities.

Early signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke according to WebMD:

• A core body temperature above 104 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Fainting
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Lack of sweating despite the heat
• Red, hot and dry skin
• Muscle weakness or cramps
• Nausea and vomiting
• Rapid heartbeat
• Rapid, shallow breathing
• Behavioral changes such as confusion, disorientation or staggering
• Seizures
• Unconsciousness

Heat stroke is an emergency, call 9 1 1.