CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – As the Tennessee Valley braces for heat index values nearing triple digits, local emergency officials and medical experts are urging the public to take heat safety seriously.
News 12 spoke with professionals from the Hamilton County Emergency Management and Erlanger Health System about the health risks associated with extreme temperatures and how to stay protected in the days ahead.
Officials say the heat is placing vulnerable groups, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with preexisting health conditions, at a significantly higher risk for heat-related illnesses.
Amy Maxwell with Hamilton County Emergency Management emphasizes that no one is immune to the dangers of this heat.
“This is a very, very important and dangerous heat that can really affect humans, not only adults, but children and also elderly as well,” Maxwell explains. “In these kinds of circumstances, it’s so important to pay attention to yourself, to be safe.”
She also stresses the importance of never leaving children in a vehicle—not even for a minute.
The rapid rise in internal car temperature can quickly become life-threatening.
Medical experts agree.
Regena Young, Injury Prevention Coordinator with Erlanger, says symptoms of heat illness can escalate quickly and should never be ignored.
“People initially start to sweat and then will have increased heart rate and respiratory rate,” Young says. “They may turn red or flushed. From there, they can become lethargic or lose consciousness.”
She outlines the four stages of heat-related illness: heat cramps, heat exhaustion, heat syncope (which involves fainting), and heat stroke.
According to Young, these conditions can quickly lead to serious medical emergencies. “We encourage folks to take this heat seriously. It can cause hospital visits, major heat strokes, or even complications like kidney failure or heart failure—especially if you’re on medication or have underlying health problems.”
Officials encourage residents to stay indoors during peak heat hours, drink plenty of fluids, and check on neighbors, especially those who are elderly or medically vulnerable.
As heat advisories remain in effect across the region, the message is clear: awareness and preparation can prevent tragedy.
Stay cool, stay hydrated, and stay safe.
