FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — This extreme heat increases the risk of heatstroke.
Health leaders said several cases of heatstroke have already been reported in Fresno County hospitals.
That’s why it’s important not only to stay hydrated, but also to know the signs of heatstroke.
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Families were cooling off under the hot Central California sun at the splash pad at Fig Garden Loop Park in northwest Fresno.
“We need to cool down,” said Yolanda Gomez of Fresno. “The kids need to run around and get some energy out.”
The family sat under a tree to avoid the scorching sun and brought plenty of water as well as food.
For Gomez, that was a top priority.
“Bring a chair, a water bottle, some snacks and a small lunch,” Gomez says. “Take the whole day and enjoy it.”
A heat wave warning was issued Tuesday morning, triggered by Fresno County health officials as temperatures in Central California reach triple digits.
“Protect yourself from the heat, move to a cooler place, use a fan,” says Dr. Rais-Vohra. “If you have access to ice water, use ice water.”
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A record 10-day heat wave in September 2022 caused more than 8,000 heatstroke deaths in the state, according to data from the California Department of Public Health.
The study found that the biggest increases in deaths were among people ages 25 to 64 and those of Hispanic origin.
“We’re finding out more and more that this is kind of an insidious thing, because heat tends to be what we call a threat multiplier,” Dr. Vohra said.
With temperatures rising this week, health officials are urging people to be on the lookout for signs of heatstroke, especially if they work outdoors.
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“If you’re feeling dehydrated, fatigued or fainting, it’s time to take your body seriously,” Dr Vohra said.
Gomez wants to give her children a place to cool off before the day gets really hot.
Public health leaders add that during hot weather, local hospitals also see an increase in heat-related cases, including heatstroke.
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