Iowa heat awareness day

The National Weather Service and Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management have
designated June 8, 2017 as Iowa Heat Awareness Day.
Most Summers in the United States produce heat waves that bring health risks if precautions are not
taken. Heat is one of the leading weather-related killers in the United States, resulting in hundreds of
fatalities each year and even more heat-related illnesses.
During extremely hot and humid weather, your body’s ability to cool itself is challenged due to
decreased evaporation of sweat. When your body can no longer adequately cool itself or when too
much water or salt is lost through sweating, your body temperature rises and heat-related illness can
occur.
In 2016, there were 39 vehicular heatstroke children deaths in the United States. Never leave
children or pets in a vehicle. Look before you lock! The temperature in a vehicle can quickly become
deadly. If the outside temperature is 80 degrees Fahrenheit, in 10 minutes the temperature inside
the vehicle will be near 100 degrees, in 30 minutes near 115 degrees and in 1 hour, near 125
degrees.
During periods of hot and humid weather:
• Drink water often
• Take breaks and cool down
• Wear lightweight, loose fitting, light-colored clothing to reflect sunlight
• Eat light and easy-to-digest foods such as fruit or salads
•  Make sure pets and livestock have access to water
• Check on neighbors
For additional safety and forecast information visit:
•  http://www.weather.gov/heat
• http://www.beready.iowa.gov
• http://www.weather.gov
The National Weather Service is working with its partners to build a Weather-Ready Nation to support community
resilience in the face of increasing vulnerability to extreme weather. Visit the Des Moines NWS office website, follow us
on Twitter (@NWSDesMoines) and on Facebook
The Iowa Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management leads, coordinates and supports homeland
security and emergency management functions in order to establish sustainable communities and ensure economic
opportunities for Iowa and its citizens. Follow us on Twitter (@IowaHSEMD) and on Facebook.