Heat-related illness and death, Wisconsin, 1995

This article examines heat-related illnesses and deaths that occurred in Wisconsin during the summer of 1995, which was among the warmest seasons on record. Death certificates that listed heat exposure as a contributing or underlying cause of 154 deaths and ambulance run reports for 454 heat-related emergency calls were analyzed. The time and place of these events and patient information were used to evaluate risk factors such as age, medical condition, physical activity, and environmental temperature. Three-fourths of the deaths and nearly half of the heat-related illnesses occurred during or shortly after two days of intense heat. Major risk factors for these heat-related illnesses and deaths included age, underlying chronic illness, physical exertion, and lack of air-conditioning. To reduce the number of illnesses and deaths that occur during future heat waves, all residents should be advised to install air-conditioning systems in their homes or apartments and encouraged to use them when indoor temperatures are uncomfortably warm. Summer weather forecasts should include heat index information. During periods of extreme heat, public health advisories should be issued encouraging residents to seek shelter in air-conditioned areas and to avoid strenuous outdoor activities and prolonged sun exposure. Region-specific criteria and procedures for issuing public health advisories should be developed jointly by the National Weather Service and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.