An extreme heat event is several days or more with uncommonly hot temperatures that can be harmful to people. Climate change will make extreme heat events more common, especially in cities. New Orleans will have warmer temperatures during the year. Illnesses and deaths caused by extreme heat events are preventable.
To request a training on extreme heat and health for your organization, email pheeh@nola.gov.
Printable outreach materials: Beat the heat!
NOHD has created the heat and health brochures in English, Spanish and Vietnamese for easy printing.
There is an additional insert with healthy homes information to the brochure (3 panels per page can be cut and added to 3 printed brochures).
Louisiana Department of Health Heat-Related Illness (HRI) Data
The Occupational Heat-Related Illness (HRI) Prevention Program monitors emergency department (ED) visits for HRI to determine the effect of extreme heat on people seeking healthcare in Louisiana. The HRI data will be updated weekly on Tuesdays from April to October this year.
View LDH Heat-Related Illness Dashboard
For more information contact us at worker health@la.gov or 888-293-7020.
Understanding the risk
- Heat impacts everyone. However, it can affect infants and young children, older adults, people with disabilities, and those without air conditioning access. Outdoor workers and athletes need extra caution due to physical exertion.
- Recognizing Heat Illness. Heat exhaustion brings sweating, weakness, and nausea. Move to a cool area and hydrate. Heat stroke, marked by hot skin and confusion, requires immediate medical attention - call 911.
- Staying Safe. Make air-conditioned spaces your priority during heat waves. Drink water regularly, even before feeling thirsty. Wear light clothing and limit outdoor activity during peak heat. Check on vulnerable neighbors regularly.
- Keeping Your Home Cool. Close blinds during hot hours and maintain AC systems. Use fans effectively and minimize heat-generating activities like cooking. Open windows strategically for ventilation if you lack AC.
Extreme heat and medications
People who take certain prescription drugs and over-the-counter (OTC) medications may be at an increased risk for heat-related illness.
- Some medications can raise your body temperature, make you more sensitive to the sun or make you more prone to dehydration.
- In other instances, heat can make medications less effective or more harmful.
- For those who take lithium, extreme sweating can cause the medication to concentrate in toxic levels, which can sometimes prove deadly.
- Several antidepressants can increase chances of heat stroke because they can either make you sweat too much or too little.
Additionally, some medications must be stored in a cool place or damaged if they are exposed to long periods of heat. Some tip for safe storage of medications include:
- Have a plan to store medications during power outages.
- Immediately pick up all mail-order drugs so they are not exposed to the elements.
- While driving, keep medications in the passenger areas of the vehicle, not in the trunk or glove box.
- If medication is exposed to heat, do not take if it has changed color, texture, or odor, even if it has not expired. Capsules or tablets that stick together, are harder or softer than normal, or are cracked or chipped might also be damaged by heat. Always call your doctor or pharmacist to help determine if medications need to be thrown out.
The CDC maintains a list of common medications that are affected by extreme heat. Consult your doctor about medications that increase the risk of heat illness and what to do.
Extreme heat and pets
Protect your pets
- Limit more extreme forms of exercise with your pets.
- Make sure your pets have access to plenty of water.
- Regular brushing may help pets with long, thick coats.
Walking dogs when it’s hot outside
- Try to take shorter walks and avoid the hottest parts of the day.
- Make sure to bring water and a bowl for your pet with you when you walk.
- Touch asphalt/concrete with your hand before you walk to see if it is too hot. Keeping pets on grass or using pet shoes or socks can help protect paws.
What to Do in an Emergency
Signs of heat stroke in pets can include:
- Heavy and constant panting
- Red gums or tongue
- Increased heart rate
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Weakness and/or unable to get up
If your pet experiences signs of heat illness you can do the following:
- Move pet into shaded area or air conditioning if possible.
- Give them water to drink and monitor for improvement.
- If you suspect your pet has heat stroke, cool the animal down by using the water hose or pouring water over them.
- Bring your pet to the veterinarian as soon as possible as heat stroke can lead to severe organ dysfunction and damage.
Some pets are especially prone to heat-related illness, such as:
- Pets that have long and/or thick fur
- Dogs with short noses or snouts, like the boxer or bulldog
- Pets that are younger or elderly
- Pets with underlying health conditions or are overweight