June 27, 2023
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE from New Mexico Department of Health

Summer heat rising: Protect yourself and others from heat-related illness

SANTA FE – Rising temperatures across New Mexico bring increased risks of heat-related illness. The eastern and southern regions, including Chaves County, will face scorching conditions with temperatures approaching 112° and potentially higher this week.

This hot weather will persist throughout the week, posing a danger to those sensitive to heat or lacking effective cooling systems. The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Warning for several areas, including Roswell, Queen, Artesia, Carlsbad, Hobbs, Lovington, Eunice, and Jal.

Symptoms

Heat-related illness can be very serious and even deadly. Be aware of the symptoms and take appropriate action:

• Heat cramps are muscle pain or spasms accompanied by heavy sweating, especially during intense exercise.

If you experience these symptoms: Stop any physical activity and get to a cool place. Drink water or a sports drink and wait for the cramps to go away before starting the activity again. Get medical help right away if the cramps last longer than an hour, if you are on a low-sodium diet, or if you have heart problems.

• Heat exhaustion appears with heavy sweating, cold, clammy skin, a fast, weak pulse, nausea or vomiting, muscle cramps, tiredness or weakness, dizziness, headache, and fainting.

If you experience these symptoms: move to a cool place, loosen clothing, cool down with damp cloths or take a cool bath and sip water. If you are throwing up, or if symptoms last longer than an hour or worsen, get medical help right away.

• Heat stroke is the most serious heat-related illness and happens when the body loses its ability to sweat. The body temperature will climb (103° or higher), skin will be hot, red, and dry or damp. Pulse will be fast and strong and can be accompanied by a headache, nausea, dizziness, confusion and passing out. It is important to recognize heat stroke in others, as they may not realize the danger that they are in because of confusion.

If someone shows signs of heat stroke

Call 911 right away. Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Try to lower the person’s body temperature with cool wet cloths or a cool bath. Do not give them anything to drink.

Consider checking on neighbors, particularly the elderly who are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses. Outdoor workers are also at risk. The Department of Health urges New Mexicans to never leave children, pets, or anyone in a parked car, even for a short period. Aside from being against the law in many cases, the health risks escalate rapidly and become highly dangerous. 

You can find more information at NM-Tracking – Heat Related Illness and you can also track your heat risk from the National Weather Service at NWS HeatRisk (noaa.gov).

Tips for Preventing Heat-Related Illness

Stay Cool

• Wear appropriate clothing
• Stay cool indoors with air-conditioning
• Schedule outdoor activities carefully when it’s coolest (morning & evening hours)
• Pace yourself
• Wear sunscreen
• Do not leave children or pets in cars
• Avoid hot and heavy meals

Stay Hydrated

• Drink plenty of fluids
  • Stay away from sugary or alcoholic drinks
• Replace salt and minerals
  • If you are on a low-salt diet, have diabetes, high blood pressure, or other chronic conditions, talk with your doctor about sports drinks.
• Keep you pets hydrated

Stay Informed

• Check for news updates about extreme heat alerts and cooling shelters in your area
• Know the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses
• Use a buddy system to check on friends and family
• Monitor those at high risk
  • Infants and young children
  • People 65 years of age and older
  • People who are overweight
  • People overexert during work or exercise
  • People who are physically ill