Childhood Health

Preventing Heat Related Illnesses

At risk populations, children and elderly are in danger of heat stroke and possible death during the hot summer months in Georgia. Educating this group as well as caregivers to recognize symptoms and to take preventative measures can help to prevent dehydration, heat stroke and possible death. All heat-related illnesses and deaths are preventable. During the 2006 summer months the Forsyth and Hall Cooperative Extension offices concentrated media efforts and educational programs to reach children, the elderly and caregivers to prevent heat related illnesses. An estimated 224,000 listeners heard local radio programs on heat dangers. An estimated 58,000 subscribers to the Forsyth and Hall newspapers read about the heat related risks to children and the elderly. About 450 homebound elderly received written information on preventing dehydration and heat stroke. (2006)

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