High heat danger to those exercising

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - High temperatures and soaring humidity can turn dangerous, and even deadly, for those that aren't prepared.

"If they're light-headed, if they're dizzy, if they're sick to their stomach, we call it NQR. Not Quite Right," said Jeff Clevenger, athletic trainer at Lafayette Jefferson High School.

When Clevenger sees a kid that's NQR, it means they're usually suffering from heat exhaustion. On summer days with heat indexes close to 110, the outdoors can become dangerous for those working and playing.

"It's not the heat that's the dangerous part, it's the humidity that's the dangerous part, because our bodies cool by evaporation. When there's a lot of humidity in the air, the sweat doesn't have a chance to evaporate," said Craig Voll, an athletic trainer with Franciscan St. Elizabeth Health.

For Purdue Quarterback Rob Henry, exercising in the heat is part of the job description. Though Purdue Football is mostly holding workouts indoors at the moment. He said the best way to avoid heat stroke is to stay hydrated, and make sure you're ready for your workout.

"You just want to make sure you prepare ahead of time. Go ahead and make sure you have plenty of water, plenty of Gatorade in your system, and hydrate throughout the workout. You're going to be working hard, you're going to be sweating a lot," said Henry.

But according to Voll, the casual athlete may be more at risk than a professional.

"In this heat, it's going to be kind of your weekend warrior. The person that isn't in as good of shape, and doesn't have the team of health professionals watching over them," said Voll.

Voll does encourage anyone playing sports outside to keep a close eye on friends, and watch for those signs of heat exhaustion. Some of those signs include dizziness, cramping, a light-headed feeling, and even feelings of confusion.