3 months ago
WASHINGTON, DC (WUSA) -- Summer's heat and humidity causes air quality-and people-- to suffer. Last weekend, the DC area experienced back-to-back Code Orange days, meaning pollution and ground-level ozone were at harmful levels. A local non-profit organization, Clean Air Partners, measures air quality, and according to them, the health concerns on Code Orange days are mainly for those in sensitive groups. "For people in the sensitive groups like children, people with respiratory and heart problems and even the elderly, they could have difficulty breathing," said Jen Desimone, a spokesperson for the group. "It could really trigger asthma attacks." On a Code Red day, she says, everyone should limit their outdoor activities. If getting outside is a must, it's wise to do it when air quality is best. "If you want to get out there and do some exercise, just shift it to the morning hours," she said. Desimone recommends checking the Clean Air Partners website for current air quality levels. Watch out for these heat exhaustion warning signs: (from familydoctor.org)
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Heavy sweating
- Feeling weak and/or confused
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Headache
- Fast heartbeat
- Dark-colored urine
If you or someone in your family experience any of these symptoms:
- Get out of the heat quickly
- Rest in a building that has air-conditioning
- If you can't get inside, find a cool, shady place
- Drink plenty of water
- Take a cool shower or bath
- Take off any tight or unnecessary clothing
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