GULF SHORES, Ala. — Alabama’s summer climate with its extreme temperatures and high humidity can lead to heat-related illnesses and deaths if not treated. And with temperatures hitting all-time highs during the month of June, the hottest weather may still be to come.

On June 23, a record high temperature was set in Mobile, topping out at 101 degrees, the highest since 1882.

Just next door in Pensacola, the mercury topped out at 102 degrees, three degrees higher than the old record from 1944. In addition, it set a new all time record high for the month of June for Pensacola.

“The hot temperatures are definitely coming earlier this year,” said  Dr. Jim McVay, director of Health Promotion and Chronic Disease for the Alabama Department of Public Health. “In Alabama we normally have between two and 13 heat related fatalities each year, so with the extreme heat we are already having, people need to seriously take precautions, especially those with conditions such as heart disease or diabetes.”

Heat-related illnesses occur when the body’s temperature control system is overloaded. Dr. McVay cautions everyone to be alert to the warnings that may signal help is needed.

“It is important that people take a break from the heat during the hottest part of the day. They need to come inside where it is cool and be sure to drink a lot of water,” McVay said. “If they have been outside for an extended period of time and notice that their skin is dry, that they are not sweating, these are signs that the body may be shutting down and they need to seek medical attention.”

Dr. McVay said that it is important for those exposed to the elements not to be consuming alcohol or anything with a high caffeine level.

Heat stroke is the most serious heat-related illness. It occurs when the body becomes unable to control its temperature. The body’s temperature rises rapidly, the sweating mechanism fails, and the body is unable to cool down. Body temperature may rise to 106 degrees or higher within 10 to 15 minutes, and heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability if emergency treatment is not provided.

Dr. Donald Williamson, state health officer, said, “A person with heat stroke is likely to be unconscious or unresponsive, so he or she cannot safely consume any liquids. Under no circumstances should you give any alcohol to a person with heat stroke or any heat illness.”

While milder in form, heat exhaustion can develop after several days of exposure to high temperatures and inadequate or unbalanced replacement of fluids.  Those most prone to heat exhaustion are the elderly, persons with high blood pressure, and those working or exercising in a hot environment.

Warning signs of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea or vomiting, or fainting.

Dr. McVay said that it is not just being out in the sun that causes problems, it is simply the heat itself.

“The problem in Alabama is the high heat indexes. There are people all over the state who have no air conditioning.  Many of these are elderly.  Anyone who knows someone who lives with no air conditioning should be checked on several times a day.”

Although anyone at any age can suffer heat-related illness, people aged 65 or older are particularly susceptible to heat-related illnesses and complications that can result during periods of high temperatures and humidity.

The risk for heat-related illnesses and death may increase among people using the following drugs: psychotropics, medications for Parkinson’s disease, tranquilizers and diuretics.