The time for summer fun is here and with it can come dangerous weather events and high temperatures that can lead to heat-related issues. To address those concerns and provide a few tips to help the public, the Coweta County Emergency Management Agency has a few words of wisdom.
Coweta EMA Director Jay Jones said the risk of lightning strikes are very real. Lightning is the No. 2 weather-related killer in the state, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).
“Because lightning usually injures one or two people at a time, this threat can be underrated,” Jones said. “During Lightning Awareness Week (June 21-27), take the time to learn basic safety measures and avoid unnecessary risk.”
Jones said most lightning deaths and injuries occur when people are caught outdoors. Be informed of the most current local weather forecasts and stay alert for signs of approaching thunderstorms. Lightning is nature’s warning signal that a thunderstorm is in its most violent state and that you should seek shelter immediately, he said.
Jones advised the following measures when a storm is approaching:
• Find shelter in a building or car. Keep car windows closed and avoid convertibles.
• Telephone lines and metal pipes can conduct electricity. Unplug appliances. Avoid using the telephone or any electrical appliances. (Leaving electric lights on, however, does not increase the chances of your home being struck by lightning.)
• Avoid taking a bath or shower, or running water for any purpose.
• Turn off the air conditioner. Power surges from lightning can overload the compressor, resulting in a costly repair job.
Jones also advised protecting yourself if outside during a thunderstorm by:
• Going to a low-lying, open place away from trees, poles or metal objects. Make sure the place you pick is not subject to flooding.
• Be a very small target. Squat low to the ground. Place your hands on your knees with your head between them. Make yourself the smallest target possible.
• Do not lie flat on the ground. This will make you a larger target.
• If you are boating or swimming, get to land and find shelter immediately.
Jones also provided information on avoiding health issues that can be brought on by exposure to extreme heat.
“People most at risk for heat-related illness are seniors, infants and people with circulation problems, but staying indoors and drinking plenty of water will help you stay cool and hydrated when temperatures rise,” said Jones.
Coweta County and Ready Georgia offered 10 tips to ensure a safe summer for every family. Those include:
• Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles.
• Fluids are lost through perspiration, so it’s important to stay well hydrated. Drink plenty of water, even when you’re not thirsty.
• Stay indoors in air-conditioned spaces as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun.
• Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight and light-colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible.
• Avoid strenuous work during the warmest part of the day. Drink two to four cups of water every hour when you are working outside.
• Check on elderly neighbors and family and friends who do not have air conditioning.
• Make sure pets have plenty of water and shade, be careful to not over-exercise them, and keep them indoors when it’s extremely hot.
• Familiarize yourself with the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat exhaustion symptoms are heavy sweating, fatigue, muscle cramps, confusion, cold, pale and clammy skin, a weak rapid pulse, and possible fainting and vomiting. Heat stroke is a severe medical emergency that occurs when the body temperature reaches 106° F. or higher. Symptoms include hot dry skin, rapid and strong pulse, and possible unconsciousness. Summon immediate emergency medical assistance.
• Insulate your home by installing weather stripping around your doors and windowsills to keep the cool air inside.
• Closely monitor a local radio station, TV station or NOAA Weather Radio or download the Ready Georgia app for the latest information on excessive heat watches and warnings.
For more information, contact Director Jay Jones Coweta County EMA at 770-254-2650 jjones@coweta.ga.us or visit www.ready.ga.gov.
