San Juan has logged three consecutive days of maximum temperatures of 94 degrees Fahrenheit with heat indices above 100 degrees, according to the National Weather Service. On Wednesday the high reached 94 degrees, six above normal for the date and tying the 2012 record, while the low was 79 degrees, also above average. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend drinking water throughout the day, taking frequent breaks in the shade or air conditioning, scheduling outdoor activities for the coolest hours, wearing light, loose, light-colored clothing, reducing physical exertion and limiting alcohol.
People who work under the sun should have water and chances to rest and cool off. Indoors, the CDC warn that if inside temperatures exceed 90 degrees a fan can raise body temperature, so they advise finding an air-conditioned place. They also urge checking on older adults, people living alone, pregnant women, babies and people with chronic illnesses, and never leaving a person or pet in a parked, closed vehicle, even for a few minutes.
Heavy sweating, cramps, headache, dizziness, weakness and nausea can signal overheating; stop activity and move to a cool place. If confusion, seizures or loss of consciousness appear, call 9-1-1 immediately and cool the person with water or fresh cloths, and never give liquids to someone unconscious.