By Peggy Jo Goodfellow, Arizona Farm Bureau: It’s hot in the desert soutwest in the summer. As I watched the news recently, my favorite meterologist told me the temperature would be 108 degrees climbing to 115 degrees over the weekend. The traffic alert signs on the freeway this morning warned parents to“Double Check; don’t leave kids in the car.”  While visiting a Ford dealership recently, I noticed a similar warning sign posted in the service area.

One sign of heat stroke includes incredibly red, hot and dry skin. 

Cars today are built to be airtight, giving all of us a sound proofed, safe, enjoyable ride. But they also get very hot inside. When it’s 105 degrees outside, the temperature inside your car can be well over 125 degrees. So when you’re out running errands the car doesn’t always cool down between stops. You should take precautions, such as drinking plenty of water, heat stoke can strike anyone at anytime.

Some vehicles today have a key fob option that allows you to start your air conditioned vehicle before you return to it. Many of the Ford vehicles have this option. If you are an eligible Arizona Farm Bureau member you can receive a bonus cash rebate on your next Ford vehicle purchase.

Heat stroke results from prolonged exposure to high temperatures…usually in combination with dehydration…which leads to failure of the body’s temperature control system. Fainting can be the first sign.

According to my doctor, other symptoms of heat stroke may include:

  1. Throbbing headache
  2. Dizziness or light-headedness
  3. Lack of sweating despite the heat
  4. Incredibly red, hot and dry skin
  5. Muscle weakness or cramps
  6. Nausea and vomiting
  7. Rapid heartbeat
  8. Rapid, shallow breathing
  9. Confusion, disorientation or staggering
  10. Seizures and unconsciousness

With triple digits it’s extra hot outside and even hotter in the car. So, be careful!

Editor’s note: For more information on our member benefits including our regional benefits go to Arizona Farm Bureau’s member benefits page online. Or, download the Member Benefits app to your smart phone for easy, everyday access to your benefits.

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