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Public Health Officials Warn About Dehydration

Students in Alachua County went back to school today, but summer is still in full swing. WRUF reported that temperatures are expected to soar into the mid to high 90’s this week.  Craig Ackerman of the Marion County Health Department advises residents to stay hydrated and seek out air conditioning.

Ackerman recommends avoiding alcoholic beverages and drinking plenty of water to prevent dehydration. He also said people should drink fluids well before they are thirsty. By the time they are thirsty, they have likely waited too long.

If air conditioning is not available at home, Ackerman suggests indoor activities such as  spending time at the library or the store.

According to the Health Department, the following could be symptoms of heat exhaustion:


  • Nausea
  • Fatigue
  • Paleness
  • Cramps
  • Excess Sweating
  • Headaches
  • Cool and Damp Skin
  • Loss of Breath
  • Fainting

Parents are also cautioned against leaving children alone in hot cars with no air conditioning. The heat in cars can be deadly, Ackerman warned. Keeping personal belongings in the back seat with a child is one tip to avoid forgetting and leaving them unattended.  As children return to school, Ackerman also reminds teachers and parents to make sure that children are drinking enough fluids, since they might not always say they are thirsty.

Josh is a reporter who can be contacted by calling 352-392-6397 or emailing news@wuft.org.