With warmer weather in full swing here at the Lake of the Ozarks, boats and traffic are not the only hazards to be wary of.

Heat can be just as a formidable foe as anything. Though not as obvious when you’re enjoying yourself at our beautiful Lake of the Ozarks we would like to extend a few warning signs to visitors and residents for a safe summer.

People at most risk for heat-related illness:

• Age older than 65 years or younger than 15 years
• People who are overweight
• People with Chronic Conditions (Diabetes, heart conditions, hypertension etc.)
• People who exercise or work in the heat
• People who are using certain medications

Heat Cramps

Heat cramps are the first stage of heat emergency. They usually happen when you’ve been physically active in the heat, but they can also occur if you haven’t been active.

Heat cramps are especially likely in the elderly or small children, overweight people, and people who have been drinking alcohol. Muscle pain and tightness are symptoms of heat cramps.

Heat Exhaustion

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include:

• muscle cramps
• dizziness
• mild confusion
• fast heart rate or breathing
• headache
• irritability
• extreme thirst
• nausea or vomiting
• pale skin
• heavy sweating
• fainting

Heatstroke

With heatstroke, all the symptoms of heat exhaustion may be present, plus:

• body temperature over 104°F
• irrational behavior or hallucinations
• confusion
• rapid, shallow breathing
• rapid, weak pulse
• seizures
• loss of consciousness
• dry skin

Sweating may be present in heatstroke. A person who is experiencing heatstroke might have very dry skin from dehydration.

Prevention:

• Use an Umbrella
• Wear Lightweight Clothing
• Protect against sunburn
• Drink plenty of fluids (water and sports drinks)
• Limit alcohol consumption
• Cool Showering

Another way to cool the body is by placing cool water bottles or ice packs under the armpits and groin area to help bring the body temperature down prior to arrival by EMS personnel.

Every year about 700 deaths occur due to heat related emergencies. We encourage everyone to have a good time and enjoy all that our area has to offer we would like for you to stay and play safely.

As always we are here 24/7, 365 days a year in the event of an emergency. Dial 911 for any emergency and responders will be with you to assist as quickly as possible.

Welcome to the Lake of the Ozarks we hope you have a safe and enjoyable time here.

“Our Family, Protecting Your Family, Because We Care”