FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 1, 2022

Governor Tony Evers Declares June 1 as Heat Awareness Day in Wisconsin

MILWAUKEE – Summer in Milwaukee means getting outside and enjoying the weather, but it can also come with the danger of heat-related illnesses. Governor Tony Evers has declared June 1 as Heat Awareness Day in Wisconsin, sponsored by ReadyWisconsin and the National Weather Service to urge Wisconsinites to stay cool, stay hydrated, and stay informed this summer.

Heat waves have been the biggest weather-related killers in Wisconsin for the past 50 years. To prevent heat-related illness or death, the Milwaukee Health Department advises citizens to take the following precautions recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

Stay Cool

• Slow down. Limit physical activity, and try to spend part of your day in air-conditioned spaces such as shopping malls, movie theaters, or libraries.
• Never leave children or pets in a parked car. Temperatures can become life-threatening within minutes.
• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing.
• Take cool baths or showers and use wet towels on your skin to help you cool down.
• Do not rely on fans as a primary cooling device.
• Check in on those most-at-risk twice a day.

Stay Hydrated

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day, regardless of thirst.
• Avoid consuming caffeinated or alcoholic beverages, as these can increase heat effects.
• Remind others to drink enough water.

Stay Informed

• Check local news and weather reports for extreme heat alerts and safety tips.
• Be aware of symptoms of heat-related illness
• Heat exhaustion symptoms include: heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, or fainting
• Heat stroke symptoms include: extremely high body temperature, hot and dry skin (no sweating), rapid pulse, throbbing headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion, or unconsciousness
• Check on relatives, friends, or neighbors, especially those most susceptible to heat-related illness, which includes the very young, the elderly, and those on certain medications (especially certain medications related to blood pressure, heart disease, and mental health).

Heat stroke and heat-related illnesses and death are preventable if you know what signs to look for. If you suspect that you or a loved one is experiencing a heat-related illness, call 911 or go to the hospital immediately.

During periods of extreme heat, the National Weather Service may issue advisories, watches, or warnings to the public. When those conditions are present, people are encouraged to adjust their plans and take precautions to help reduce their risk of exposure to potentially dangerous conditions. Those in need of emergency services during heat advisories, watches, or warnings should call Impact 211 for assistance.

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