How to stay safe in this week's heatwave

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- As central Ohio prepares for a heatwave, experts have some important tips if you do have to spend time outside this week.

Hydration, shade, and rest are all important things to remember. The heat is already having an impact and some hospitals expect that to continue as the week – and the first spell of 90 degree-plus days in 2024 -- goes on.

A doctor with Riverside Methodist Hospital said there were quite a few people with heat-related illnesses over the weekend.

"We've already seen quite an uptick because of all the events around Columbus,” Riverside Methodist Hospital Assistant Medical Director of Emergency Services Dr. Bradley Raetzke said. “Things like the air show, the Pride festival. We've really seen an uptick in people who have actually been quite sick because of the heat.”

If you are out in the sun and start to feel sick, Raetzke said there are a few symptoms to watch for.

"Lightheadedness, feeling of thirst, feeling of tired, all things can be the early signs of heat injury,” he said. “The other things that are more serious include the lack of ability to sweat as well as nausea and vomiting.”

Raetzke recommends that for every 10 to 15 minutes of outdoor activity that you are drinking 12 to 16 ounces of water during that time. If not, you could end up needing help.

"Things that we typically see as people coming in towards noon or later in the afternoon and people who have been in construction, landscaping, and have really been outside for most of the day," Raetzke said. 

Keeping that water bottle handy could keep you out of a trip to the doctor.

"Watch out for yourself and watch out for your family members, people may not actually understand that they're feeling the symptoms of heat," Raetzke said. 

The time to go to the hospital is when you’ve been in the shade, drank water and still feel sick.