2024/07/27 13:10 Weather News
Katsuaki Yoshida, director of Yokohama Tsurumi Rehabilitation Hospital (Tsurumi-ku, Yokohama City), emphasized, “Don’t forget to prevent heat stroke while enjoying fireworks.” In this article, we will discuss the risks of heat stroke during fireworks and how to cope with it.
Fireworks Displays: Risk of Heat Stroke
Fireworks displays provide a fun distraction from the heat, but they also pose health risks. For example, at the Sumida River Fireworks Festival (Sumida-ku, Tokyo), which draws approximately 950,000 attendees, between 9 to 43 people are rescued each year, including up to 19 individuals suffering from heat stroke during the hottest years. Heat stroke cases occur almost yearly.
“Mild heat stroke, such as nausea or dizziness due to high temperatures, is actually quite common. Summer events, like fireworks festivals, occur in hot environments, heightening the risk of heat stroke.” (Director Yoshida)
Fatigue and Dehydration
“During a fireworks display, a large crowd gathers in a confined space, despite being outdoors. The surface temperature of human skin is 32 to 33 degrees Celsius, which generates significant heat. Additionally, the high temperature hinders heat dissipation from the skin, and factors like sweat evaporation, exhalation, and poor airflow from the crowd combine to raise temperature and humidity levels.
If there are lines at food stalls, restrooms, or congestion near public transport exits on the way home, the heat condition can deteriorate swiftly. ” (Director Yoshida)
Indeed, one might experience sweating and fatigue during a fireworks show.
“Another issue is the risk of dehydration and salt loss. Even while sweating, many avoid buying drinks due to crowd anxiety and refrain from drinking water because of restroom concerns.” (Director Yoshida)
Be Aware of Your Location During the Day
“Standing for long periods and using public transportation to get to the venue can lead to fatigue at fireworks displays. Furthermore, it’s common for popular fireworks shows to require early arrival. The best viewing spots are often in open areas without shade, and waiting for extended periods demands a lot of energy.
Moreover, wearing a mask in crowded places obstructs heat dissipation from the facial skin, making individuals less aware of their thirst. I hope attendees will be particularly mindful of the risks of heat stroke.” (Director Yoshida)
Stay Hydrated and Take Precautions Against Heat
“Get adequate rest the night before, and prepare light clothing and water. If you plan to reserve a spot during the day, bring sun protection like a hat or an umbrella.
Ensure you stay hydrated frequently while watching. The recommended intake is about one drink per hour. However, do not expect alcohol to rehydrate you, as it has a diuretic effect and can actually increase the risk of heat stroke.” (Director Yoshida)
If you feel uncomfortable, don’t push yourself too hard.
“If you feel hot or in pain, relocate to a cool area and stay hydrated. If you’re feeling unwell or dizzy, you might be experiencing heat stroke—loosen your clothing to allow body heat to escape. Cool your neck and armpits with a cold water bottle or a wet towel.
If you begin to show symptoms of heat stroke, like dizziness, nausea, or headache, visit a first aid station. Children and the elderly often struggle to recognize symptoms, so be especially cautious when accompanying them.
Some individuals may also experience physical distress, such as fainting on the way home. This is thought to result from maintaining the same posture for too long combined with sudden standing, leading to poor blood circulation and insufficient blood supply to the brain. Make sure to hydrate regularly and change positions or stretch as needed.” (Director Yoshida)
If you collapse from heat stroke, your cherished memories of fireworks will be ruined. Remember to stay hydrated and take precautions against the heat.
References, etc.
Ministry of the Environment “2020 Guidelines for Countermeasures against Heatstroke during Summer Activities” (Guidelines for Countermeasures against Heatstroke during Summer Activities Research Committee)
2024/07/27 13:10 Weather News
Katsuaki Yoshida, director of Yokohama Tsurumi Rehabilitation Hospital (Tsurumi-ku, Yokohama City), said, “Don’t forget to prevent heat stroke when enjoying fireworks.” We will introduce the risks of heat stroke during fireworks and how to deal with it.
Fireworks Displays: Risk of Heat Stroke
Fireworks displays are a fun activity that can make you forget about the heat, but they also carry the risk of getting sick. For example, at the Sumida River Fireworks Festival (Sumida-ku, Tokyo), which attracts about 950,000 people, 9 to 43 people are rescued each year, including 19 people suffering from heat stroke in the hottest years. Heat stroke patients occur almost every year.
Understanding Heat Stroke Risks
According to Katsuaki Yoshida, “In fact, mild heat stroke, such as feeling nauseous or dizzy due to the high temperature, is considered to be more common. Summer events such as firework festivals occur in hot environments, which increases the risk of heat stroke.”
Fatigue and Dehydration During Fireworks
“During a fireworks display, a large number of people gather in a confined space, even though it is an open space. The surface temperature of human skin is 32 to 33 degrees Celsius, which is a significant heat source. In addition, heat dissipation on the skin surface, sweat evaporation, exhalation, and poor ventilation caused by the crowd all combine to raise temperature and humidity.
If there are queues at food stalls, toilets, etc., or if there are crowds near public transport entrances and exits on the way home, the heat environment will quickly deteriorate.” (Director Yoshida)
Indeed, you may find yourself sweating and exhausted during a fireworks display.
“Another problem is that dehydration and salt deficiency can occur easily. Even if we sweat, we may hesitate to go out to buy drinks due to the crowds, and we may also avoid drinking water to prevent toilet problems.” (Director Yoshida)
Pay Attention to Your Location During the Day
“It’s easy to get tired at fireworks displays because you have to stand for long periods and travel by public transport to the venue. Also, it’s not uncommon for popular fireworks displays to be booked during the day. The best spots to watch fireworks are usually areas with open skies and no shade, and waiting for long periods requires a lot of energy.
Wearing a mask in crowded places makes it harder for heat to dissipate from your face, which keeps you from feeling thirsty. I hope people will be more careful about heat stroke than usual.” (Director Yoshida)
Stay Hydrated and Prevent Heat Issues
“The night before, rest well and prepare cool clothes and water. If you plan to reserve a spot during the day, bring sun protection, such as a hat or umbrella.
Make sure to stay hydrated frequently while watching the display. The recommended amount is one drink every hour. However, don’t rely on alcohol to replenish fluids; it has a diuretic effect and can actually exacerbate heat stroke.” (Director Yoshida)
If you begin to feel uncomfortable, it’s vital not to push yourself too hard.
“If you feel overheated or in discomfort, find a cool place and hydrate yourself. If you feel sick or dizzy, you may be experiencing heat stroke. Loosen tight clothing to allow body heat to escape. Cool your neck and armpits with a cold plastic bottle or wet towel.
Should you experience symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, or headaches, visit a first aid station. Children and the elderly may struggle to communicate their discomfort, so keep a close eye on them.
Some individuals may faint while heading home due to prolonged standing, which leads to poor blood circulation and insufficient blood supply to the brain. Regularly drinking water and moving a bit can help alleviate this issue.” (Director Yoshida)
To ensure you can fully enjoy the fireworks, prioritizing hydration and heat prevention is critical.
What to Watch For: Symptoms of Heat Stroke
The following symptoms may indicate heat stroke:
- Dizziness and headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Extreme thirst and dry mouth
- Rapid heart rate
- Unusual fatigue or weakness
If you or someone else starts to show these warning signs, seek immediate medical assistance.
Practical Tips for Enjoying Fireworks Safely
Here are some practical tips to ensure a fun and safe fireworks experience:
- Hydrate Frequently: Drink water every 20-30 minutes, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
- Dress Appropriately: Wear lightweight and light-colored clothing.
- Plan Your Spots: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot with access to shade.
- Take Breaks: If feeling fatigued, take short breaks in cooler areas, if possible.
- Stay Aware: Keep an eye on your companions and be vigilant about their well-being.
Case Studies: Real-Life Experiences
Case Study 1: During the 2023 Osaka Fireworks Festival, several festival-goers reported feeling dizzy after standing in the sun without shade for prolonged periods. Many attributed their symptoms to inadequate water intake and severe heat.
Case Study 2: Conversely, a group of friends who took precautions by pre-hydrating, wearing hats and light clothes, reported enjoying the show without any heat-related health issues.
References and Guidelines
Ministry of the Environment “2020 Guidelines for Countermeasures against Heatstroke during Summer Activities” (Guidelines for Countermeasures against Heatstroke during Summer Activities Research Committee)
