Wednesday, July 19, 2006

Governor Proclaims, "It's hot."

For those of you complaining Governor Vilsack isn't concerned about Iowa as he travels the country running for president, read this. His office just sent this out...

Governor Vilsack reminds Iowans to take precautions during hot summer months

DES MOINES –
With triple digit heat indexes predicted for today and high temperatures predicted for Thursday, Governor Vilsack reminded Iowans today to continue taking measures to avoid serious health problems associated with summer heat.

"Iowans need to brace for another day of dangerous heat indexes
that are covering most of our state today," said Vilsack. "Local officials are working in communities to supply resources, but neighbors can also help by checking on the elderly or those with chronic health conditions, especially if they lack air conditioning."

Heat exhaustion occurs when sweating, the body's cooling system, fails to eliminate heat fast enough. The signs of heat exhaustion are faintness, rapid pulse, and flushing or reddening of the skin, which is often accompanied by stomachache or headache. When heat exhaustion symptoms occur, Iowans should stop all activity and drink liquids such as water or re-hydrating fluids (Gatorade, Powerade, or Pedialyte for children). They should not drink alcohol, coffee, or caffeinated soft drinks. Those affected should also take a cool shower. Health complications from heat include exhaustion, stroke and dehydration. Heat stroke, a more serious and
potentially deadly condition, is commonly associated with confusion on the part of the affected person, who may also stop sweating. Iowans in this situation should seek medical help immediately. While waiting for help, the person needs to be cooled, or if possible, taken to a cooler environment. Dehydration occurs as a contributing factor and comes when fluid and sodium lost by sweating are not replaced quickly enough. A person should continually drink fluids and not wait until thirsty because thirst is a sign of dehydration. It is important to maintain fluids by drinking two to four glasses of cool water or fluids an hour. State health officials encourage Iowans to do the following to avoid health problems associated with heat:

•Take breaks and drink plenty of fluids when participating in outdoor activities like construction, yard work or recreation.
•Limit outdoor activities in the heat of the day.
•Do outside work before noon or in the evening.
•Parents should ensure children are well hydrated.
•Never leave children, elderly or pets in a parked car, even for a few moments. Leaving a window partially open may not be enough to protect those inside from rapidly rising temperatures.

Of course, the Gov won't be in Iowa much. So here's his personal forecast...

St. Louis.....................Washington, D.C.

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

ya, it sure is hot when he is in air conditioning and helping to give away our rights here in Iowa. How about he comes home and cleans house before thinking of higher asperations. Then maybe I would have more respect for our governor.

Anonymous said...

What rights is he giving away here in Iowa?