By Jeff Devine, Dale County Chronicle
With dangerously high temperatures and oppressive humidity continuing across Southeast Alabama, the Chronicle reached out to Dale County Coroner John Cawley for advice to help keep the community informed and safe.
Coroner Cawley is urging residents to take the threat of extreme heat seriously, warning that heat-related illnesses can escalate quickly and become fatal if precautions are not taken.
In a public safety message released this week, Cawley emphasized that prolonged exposure to extreme heat places everyone at risk, but certain groups face significantly greater danger.
“The Dale County Coroner’s Office extends its deepest concern to all residents during this period of extreme heat,” Cawley said. “Heat-related illnesses can develop rapidly and, in severe cases, may result in death.”
Alabama regularly experiences some of the nation’s highest summertime heat index values, where high humidity prevents the body from cooling itself efficiently through sweating. When the body’s internal temperature rises too quickly, vital organs can begin to fail, making heat stroke a true medical emergency.
According to Cawley, those at greatest risk include older adults, infants and young children, people with chronic medical conditions, outdoor workers, athletes, and individuals without access to reliable air conditioning.
Understanding Heat Illness
Health experts say heat-related illnesses occur on a spectrum.
Heat cramps are often the first warning sign and can progress to heat exhaustion, which may include heavy sweating, dizziness, weakness, nausea, headache, and fainting. Without immediate treatment, heat exhaustion can quickly become heat stroke, the most severe form of heat illness.
Signs of heat stroke include confusion, altered mental status, seizures, unconsciousness, hot skin, and a body temperature of 103 degrees or higher. At that point, every minute matters.
“If someone shows signs of heat stroke, including confusion, loss of consciousness, seizures, or a body temperature above 103 degrees, call 911 immediately,” Cawley said.
“Heat stroke is a medical emergency and can be fatal if not treated promptly.”
Staying Safe During Extreme Heat
Cawley encourages residents to take proactive steps to reduce their risk of heat-related illness, including:
Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you do not feel thirsty.
Limit strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day, generally between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing.
Spend time in air-conditioned buildings whenever possible.
Take frequent breaks in the shade if working outdoors.
Learn to recognize the warning signs of heat illness before they become life-threatening.
He also stressed the importance of looking after others during periods of extreme heat.
Residents are encouraged to check frequently on elderly relatives, neighbors, friends, and anyone living alone who may not have adequate cooling.
Never Leave Anyone (including pets) in a Parked Vehicle
One of the most preventable causes of heat-related deaths involves children, older adults, and pets left inside parked vehicles.
Even with the windows cracked, temperatures inside a vehicle can rise to deadly levels within minutes. Cawley reminds residents to never leave children, elderly individuals, or pets unattended inside a vehicle, even for a short time.
A Community Responsibility
While heat-related deaths are preventable, they continue to occur each year across the South.
“The loss of life from preventable heat-related incidents is a tragedy for families and our entire community,” Cawley said. “By remaining vigilant and looking after one another, we can reduce the risk of serious illness and death during periods of extreme heat.”
The Dale County Coroner’s Office encourages residents to monitor weather conditions, stay hydrated, avoid unnecessary heat exposure, and immediately seek medical care if symptoms of heat stroke develop.
As Alabama enters the hottest weeks of summer, officials say simple precautions can mean the difference between life and death.
“Please stay safe, stay hydrated, and check on those who may need assistance,” Cawley said.
