Prince George's County man, 59, marks Maryland's first heat-related death of 2024
BALTIMORE -- A 59-year-old man who died recently in Prince George's County marks Maryland's first heat-related death this year, the Maryland Department of Health said Wednesday.
Nilesh Kalyanaraman, deputy secretary for public health services with the Maryland Department of Health, said the man's tragic death demonstrates the perils posed by heat-related illness, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
"As we experience more hot days in Maryland this summer, this tragedy reminds us to take the necessary steps to avoid overheating," he said in a statement. "Also, be sure to check on family, friends, and neighbors who may be particularly vulnerable to heat, including young children, senior citizens and people with chronic diseases."
The advisory comes as Maryland has grappled with a week of heat that has pushed temperatures into the 90s.
The health department is reminding Marylanders not to leave children or pets in their cars for any length of time, even with the windows cracked, when the weather is hot. The agency also asks residents to check on neighbors and loved ones.
It's worth noting that anyone, no matter their age, can develop heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
But those most at risk include children under 5 and adults over the age of 65, as well as those with chronic conditions, people exercising or working outdoors, and those who take certain medications.
Here's a list of tips from the health department to help manage hot weather:
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, particularly water
- Steer clear of alcohol, caffeine and sugar-heavy beverages
- Dress in lightweight, light-colored and loose-fitting clothes
- Wear sunblock and stay in the shade as much as possible
- Avoid doing strenuous activity in the peak hours of the day
- If working or working out, take frequent breaks to cool off
Anyone in need of a place to cool off is asked to contact their local health department. You can also dial 211 and get information about cooling center locations and hours by providing your county and ZIP code.
To learn more about heat-related illness, visit the agency's website.