Insurance Co. Warns of "Deadly Heat Wave"

The heat wave has insurance companies issuing warnings and tips about the dangers of a heat wave.

We've heard this, but doesn't hurt to hear it again, with Chesterfield hitting 107 Saturday.

Here's one from Amica Insurance:

A dangerous and deadly heat wave continues to smother much of the U.S., with more record-breaking temperatures forecast.

At least two people have died as a result of the extremely hot temperatures so far, so we're sharing this list of symptoms of heat-related illness—and important safety tips.

“Extreme heat affects all of us but the most vulnerable are the elderly, those who work or exercise outdoors, infants and children, the homeless or poor, and people with a chronic medical condition,” said Christopher J. Portier, a spokesman for the Centers for Disease Control.

“Taking precautions to stay cool, hydrated and informed helps to prevent serious health effects, such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke during extreme heat,” Portier said.

Some symptoms of heat-related illness include nausea, dizziness and heavy sweating. Get victims to a cool, shady area as soon as possible and provide cool, nonalcoholic beverages, according to the CDC.

If the person is having trouble breathing, loses consciousness or vomits, call 9-1-1 immediately. He or she may be suffering from heat stroke, which can be life-threatening.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says air conditioning is the best way to prevent heat-related illness and death.

The CDC also offers these safety tips for dealing with the heat:

• Wear light-colored, loose-fitting, breathable clothing.
• Stay indoors as much as possible. Try to limit outdoor activity to morning and evening, and rest often in shady areas.
• Drink often to stay hydrated, and avoid drinks with caffeine, alcohol or sugar.
• Take cool showers or baths.
• Never leave children or pets in a closed, parked vehicle.
• Protect yourself from the sun with a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and sunscreen – SPF 15 or higher. Put on sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside, and reapply it as directed.
• Use the stove and oven less to keep your home cooler, and try not to eat hot or heavy meals; they add heat to your body.

People who don’t have air conditioning at home may want to seek relief with family members or friends, or even at a local mall.

Many communities also offer heat-relief shelters.

Amica Insurance is the oldest mutual car insurer in the U.S., with the nearest branch for Chesterfield in the Chicago area, according to the Amica website.