Heat-Related Illness Information

Alachua County Emergency Management and the Florida Department of Health in Alachua County urge residents to avoid heat-related illnesses.

Hot weather places extra stress on the body by elevating core body temperature, especially during exercise. Heat cramps, heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and exercise-associated collapse are all outcomes that may occur due to overheating. Elderly people are more likely to suffer from heat stress than others, but heat-related illnesses can affect anyone subjected to high temperatures for an extended period.

Know the warning signs of heat-related illness:

HEAT EXHAUSTION WARNING SIGNS:

  • Weakness, headache, dizziness, or fainting.
  • Paleness.
  • Unusually elevated heart rate.
  • Fast and shallow breathing.
  • Nausea or vomiting.
  • Muscle cramps.

HEAT STROKE SYMPTOMS:

  • Confusion, altered mental status.
  • Slurred speech, loss of consciousness.
  • Hot, dry skin, profuse sweating, seizures.
  • Extremely high body temperature (above 103°F).

Protect yourself with these helpful tips:

  • Stay hydrated with water; avoid sugary and alcoholic beverages.
  • Wear lightweight, light-colored, and loose-fitting clothing.
  • Stay cool in an air-conditioned area.
  • Avoid engaging in strenuous activities during peak hours.
  • Take a cool shower or bath.


For more information, contact Alachua County Emergency Management Director Jen Grice at 352-264-6510 or JGrice@alachuacounty.us

Related News

County Commission

6-5-25 County Commission and City of High Springs Commission Joint Meeting

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Sed porttitor tempor posuere. Etiam eu suscipit tellus.

Alachua County Commission

6-3-25 County Commission Special Meeting

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Sed porttitor tempor posuere. Etiam eu suscipit tellus.

MTPO

6-2-25 Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization Meeting

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Sed porttitor tempor posuere. Etiam eu suscipit tellus.

5-28-25 Community Update Newsletter

5-28-25 Community Update Newsletter

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Sed porttitor tempor posuere. Etiam eu suscipit tellus.

Read All About It: Alachua County News and Updates

Keep up-to-date with all news and developments in your community, delivered to your inbox.

Subscribe