Doctors warn of dangerously hot temperatures ahead

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Some dangerously hot temperatures are back in the forecast for the Memphis area over the next several days and health experts are warning residents to take necessary precautions.

Keeva Anderson home-schools her children and admits there are times when her kids have to go outside and get some fresh air.

With temperatures expected to hover near 100 degrees, Anderson said they would be doing things differently.

“I dress them according to the weather. I hydrate, and then I pack an extra bag for a drink,” said Anderson.

LeBonhuer emergency room doctors say more people are paying attention to the weather. They have seen fewer cases of kids succumbing to the heat, even as they practice and play in it.

📡 See more breaking news, local news and weather from WREG.com for Memphis and the Mid-South .

📧 Sign up for WREG newsletters and have the latest top stories sent right to your inbox.

“With those that are playing sports, I believe the coaches are doing an outstanding job on having the kids do frequent breaks, making sure they’re hydrated, and when that heat index gets up to a certain temperature. They either call off practices or they go inside the gym and do other practices,” said Dr. Rudy Kink.

Dr. Kink said adults must also take precautions.

“Those who their job is working outside, whether it’s doing lawn care or any of construction, being out there in that direct heat is really hard. So really take a time, drink plenty of fluids, and get into the shade, especially through the next week, when the temperatures are going to really get up really high again,” Dr. Kink said.

Doctors say the body will show signs when it’s in trouble, and if you’re not careful, you could suffer heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

“The body has a marvelous way of cooling itself through perspiration and things like that.
But if you don’t give it enough liquid, the body can’t do its job,” said Dr. Kink.

You could be headed for trouble if you experience tiredness, fatigue, shortness of breath, racing heart rate, or feeling like you will pass out.

Doctors say to take a break, seek shade, and stay hydrated. They say if you are not sweating, your body is not getting enough liquids and you may need to seek medical attention.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.