OCALA, Fla. – Festivalgoers heading to Rock The Country music festival in Ocala this weekend are urged to stay hydrated and safe as the area will see near-record heat.
The two-day festival kicks off Friday, with Kid Rock and Jason Aldean headlining the event.
Marion County Fire Rescue posted on social media Friday that there will be two medical tents and cooling tents/misting fans throughout the festival grounds to help people beat the heat.
“As we gather for the Rock the Country concert today and tomorrow, I urge everyone to prioritize their safety. Please stay hydrated, apply sunscreen, seek shade, and take regular rest breaks. Let’s have a fantastic two-day concert, knowing that Marion County Fire Rescue and Marion County Sheriff’s Office are here to ensure everyone remains safe,” Fire Chief James Banta said in the post.
A good way to stay cool while outdoors is by dressing in lightweight, light-colored and breathable clothing. A wide-brimmed hat can also help, and don’t forget sunscreen!
The humidity Friday is expected to climb as the day goes on with feels-like temperatures in the 102-106 degree range, and the heat isn’t letting up during the weekend as we reach near-record territory.
Signs to look for for heat exhaustion/heat stroke:
Along with outside temperatures, humidity plays a huge role in our body’s ability to efficiently regulate and cool our bodies.
When the humidity is high, sweat does not evaporate as quickly as when the air is drier. This prevents the body from releasing heat, therefore causing someone to become ill. This is why the heat index, or the feels-like temperature values, factor the actual air temperature and relative humidity.
What is heat exhaustion?
Heat exhaustion is the first sign that your body is having trouble self-regulating your body temperature. A person suffering from heat exhaustion might have cool and moist skin but their pulse rate is fast and weak and their breathing is rapid and shallow.
Symptoms:
- Muscle cramping
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness or fainting
Medical action:
- Move person to cooler environment
- Loosen clothing
- Apply cool and wet cloths
- Take small sips of water
If the individual vomits more than once, or symptoms worsen or don’t improve within an hour, seek immediate medical attention. If left untreated, heat exhaustion may quickly advance to heat stroke.
What is heat stroke?
Heat stroke is a serious, life-threatening condition that can damage the brain or other vital organs.
Symptoms:
- Body temperature greater than 103 degrees
- Red, hot and dry skin (not sweating)
- Rapid, strong pulse
- Throbbing headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Confusion
- Unconsciousness
Medical action:
- Call 911 or get the person to a hospital immediately.
- Move person to cooler environment
- Loosen clothing
- Apply cool and wet cloths
- Use a fan (only with highs below 90 degrees, since a fan can make you hotter at higher temperatures)
- Do NOT give fluids.
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