(July 1, 2010) Sellersville, PA – With temperatures soaring, Grand View Hospital encourages community members to protect themselves and others prone to heat related illness. In extreme cases, very high body temperatures may damage the brain or other vital organs and can even cause death. The best defense is prevention.

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends the following tips to stay safe in the summer heat:

• Drink plenty of water or other non-alcoholic beverages
• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that is light in color
• Stay indoors and, if at all possible, stay in an air-conditioned place
• Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle
• If you must be outdoors, reduce strenuous activities or do them during cooler hours

“Even young and healthy individuals can succumb to heat if they participate in strenuous physical activities during hot weather,” Kim Kuhar, DO of Silverdale, PA reminds her patients. “Staying hydrated and allowing periods for your body to cool down are important.”

Although any one at any time can suffer from heat-related illness, some people are at greater risk. Check regularly on:

• Infants and young children
• People aged 65 or older
• People who have a mental illness
• Those who are physically ill, especially with heart disease or high blood pressure, or who take certain medications, such as for depression, insomnia, or poor circulation
• People who are overweight because of their tendency to retain more body heat
• People who overexert during work or exercise

If you have a question or concern about staying safe in the heat, talk to your doctor. To find a physician, call the Grand View Information Line at 215-453-4300 or visit www.gvh.org.

Grand View Hospital, Bucks County’s first hospital, has provided residents of Bucks and Montgomery counties with comprehensive health-care services since 1913. Grand View offers a range of inpatient and outpatient care – particularly emphasizing the areas of surgery and orthopaedics, women's and children's health, heart and vascular care, and cancer treatment.