JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Residents are urged to take precautions against potentially dangerous heat-related illnesses this week as Jacksonville could experience record-breaking heat both Wednesday and Thursday,
Temperatures are expected to reach as high as 97 degrees.
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Heat-related illnesses can happen to anyone, even if you’re used to this Florida heat.
Heat stroke and heat exhaustion are among the most severe heat-related ailments.
Capt. Eric Prosswimmer, spokesman for the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department, emphasizes the importance of hydration and paying attention to your body to prevent these conditions.
“Basically, you got to stay hydrated. That’s something that happens days in advance before the heat comes,” Prosswimmer said. “It’s a way of life, really. Then you have to watch your body. If you’re not feeling well, get out of the heat, try to cool yourself off as soon as possible.”
Common warning signs of heat stroke and heat exhaustion include high body temperature, headache, dizziness, nausea, and confusion.
Jacksonville firefighters face extreme temperatures daily.
Prosswimmer said it doesn’t take much to overheat, especially for firefighters who wear about 80 pounds of gear.
“We have to maintain our fluids in our body. We have to maintain being in shape. So this is something that we plan for all year round,” he said.
Prosswimmer also highlights the danger of electronics in hot weather conditions.
He urges everyone to keep a close eye on any device that can spark a fire in seconds.
“You want to monitor your electricity items, your power strips, you don’t want to overload them,” Prosswimmer added.
Pet owners are also reminded that animals are also susceptible to heat-related illnesses.
To keep pets safe during hot weather, experts recommend keeping them hydrated, never leaving them in parked cars without air conditioning, avoiding hot pavement, and limiting outdoor activity.