Residents of the south central Iowa region are cautioned to use caution when exposed to temperatures in the 90s and higher, as the extreme heat is expected to persist throughout the summer. According to Fire Captain Thad White, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and heat cramps are the three heat-related problems. Getting someone into a cool, indoor space and giving them water to help them chill down as quickly as possible and prevent dehydration are key to treating cramps and fatigue. With symptoms like nausea and confusion, heat stroke is a potentially fatal condition that necessitates hospitalization and calls for paramedic assistance. Emergency rooms advise people to contact 911 without hesitation if they have any concerns about whether someone is suffering from a heat-related disease.
